The first Primary school in Nigeria

Did you ever get to know that the first primary school in Nigeria was established in Badagry?

In 1843, missionaries from the Weslyian Mission ( Methodist Church) sited the first church, in this coastal town, that is at borderline with Seme.

This was during the colonial era.the school was named the Nursery of Infant Church

Two years after, the school was renamed, St. Thomas Anglican  Nursery and Primary school, by Reverend Golmer of the CMS(Church Missionary Society).

It so happened that the CMS was the occupant of the first story building in Badagry, a building that still stands till today. The school started from this place, before moving to its current location at Topo, Badagry.

It should interest you to note that Christianity was first preached in Badagry, at a spot known as “Agia Tree” and the sermon was delivered by Reverend Birch Freeman.

BADAGRY- A Note Worthy Town

Badagry having become popular for being the site for the first primary school in Nigeria, was founded in the early 15th century by a farmer called “Agbedeh”. It was however called “Agedagari” by the yoruba settlers because of the challenging nature of the town.

The name was later changed to “Badagry” by  European Slave Traders.

Tragically, this port became a port for slave trades and the export of slaves. Badagry after being annexed by the Government of the United Kingdom became incorporated into Lagos, till today.

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