First Storey Building Nigeria
Nigeria's oldest storey building, built in 1845, offering a profound glimpse into missionary history and the colonial era.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
First Storey Building Nigeria
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nigeria's oldest storey building, built in 1845, offering a profound glimpse into missionary history and the colonial era.
"The story behind the first storey building in Nigeria is beautiful. The curator was very detailed."
⏳ Allow ample time
The visit is short, but the stories are deep. Combine with nearby sites for a fuller experience.
🗣️ Engage with the curator
They offer detailed, engaging narratives that bring history to life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The First Storey Building
Badagry, Lagos State
Nigeria's oldest storey building, a symbol of early missionary efforts and a gateway to understanding colonial history.
Bishop Ajayi Crowther's Bible
Inside the First Storey Building
See the actual Bibles used by Bishop Ajayi Crowther, a pivotal figure in Nigerian Christianity and literacy.
Historical Artifacts
Inside the First Storey Building
Explore artifacts from the missionary era, including items related to the slave trade and early Christian missions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Nigeria's First Storey Building
Immerse Yourself in History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
The visit is short, but the stories are deep. Combine with nearby sites for a fuller experience.
🗣️ Engage with the curator
They offer detailed, engaging narratives that bring history to life.
📸 Capture the history
Great photo opportunities of a significant historical landmark.
🚶♂️ Explore Badagry
Combine your visit with the slave market and museum for a comprehensive historical tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
The visit is short, but the stories are deep. Combine with nearby sites for a fuller experience.
🗣️ Engage with the curator
They offer detailed, engaging narratives that bring history to life.
📸 Capture the history
Great photo opportunities of a significant historical landmark.
🚶♂️ Explore Badagry
Combine your visit with the slave market and museum for a comprehensive historical tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the First Storey Building for its historical significance and the engaging storytelling of the curators. It's described as an enlightening experience that offers a tangible connection to Nigeria's past, particularly its missionary and colonial eras. While the visit itself is brief, it's highly recommended as part of a broader exploration of Badagry's historical sites.
"It was a fun-filled experience with my family. Though it's rather short visit, however, it's a recommended site tour for everyone."
simon olatunji
"The story behind the first storey building in Nigeria is beautiful. The curator was very detailed in his story telling and he makes you feel like you are living in the said time while in the building. We also went to the slave market, where we saw the chains used by the slave masters then to chain slaves, we saw the umbrellas and gin bottles that 40 able bodied men were exchanged for, and the prison room were these slaves were kept. Badagry is a must visit, it gives you an idea of our ancestors"
Nneka Ofodile
"I went there with my family. We were just expecting to take pictures and leave but we were met by an extremely friendly tour guide. The building itself is phenomenal. It has been standing since 1845 and was built by my african ancestors long before I was born. Our tour guide ended up following us to two other museums and he charged a very fair price. I definitely recommend coming to learn a bit more about Nigerian history and the History of Christianity, Slave Trade and the wonderful area known as Badagry."
Lara Okungbure
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The First Storey Building is located in Badagry, Lagos State. You can reach Badagry by road from Lagos. Many visitors opt for private cars or taxis. Consider booking a tour that includes transportation from Lagos for a hassle-free experience.
While public transport options exist, they might be less direct and comfortable for tourists. Hiring a car or joining an organized tour is generally recommended for ease of access.
Once in Badagry, local taxis or tricycles (keke napep) are common for getting around to different historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The building is generally open during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check for specific timings or confirm with local guides upon arrival.
Entry fees are typically minimal. Some visitors mention a 'very fair price' charged by tour guides for access and information.
Advance booking is usually not required for the First Storey Building itself. However, if you're booking a guided tour of Badagry, it's best to arrange that beforehand.
While not always advertised, tour guides often offer packages that include visits to the First Storey Building, the slave market, and other museums for a combined fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find historical artifacts, including Bishop Ajayi Crowther's first Yoruba Bible, and learn about the lives of early missionaries. The building itself is a significant historical structure.
Yes, engaging and friendly tour guides are often available on-site. They provide detailed historical context and stories, making the visit more immersive.
A visit to the building itself is relatively short, often around 30-60 minutes. However, many visitors extend their stay by exploring nearby historical sites.
Given its historical nature, accessibility might be limited. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility features if needed.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's always good practice to confirm with the guide or staff on duty.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the building offers a classic historical facade. Inside, focus on capturing the unique artifacts and the architectural details that speak to its age.
While generally allowed, it's polite to ask your guide or any on-site staff before taking extensive photos, especially of specific exhibits.
Natural light is the primary source inside the building. Mornings often provide softer, more even light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Engage the guide: Ask them to tailor stories for children.
* Combine with other sites: Make a day of it by visiting the slave museum and market.
* Prepare for sensitive topics: Discuss the history of the slave trade beforehand with older children.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Recommendations for history buffs:
* Hire a knowledgeable guide: Their insights are invaluable for a deeper understanding.
* Explore surrounding historical sites: Badagry offers a wealth of historical context beyond this single building.
* Research beforehand: Familiarize yourself with the key figures and events to enhance your visit.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Lagos
Plan your route to include other Badagry attractions like the slave market to maximize your time. Day trip essentials:
* Start early: Allow for travel time to Badagry.
* Pack essentials: Water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
* Consider a guided tour: This can streamline your itinerary and provide efficient access to information.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Nigeria's Colonial Past
+2Visiting the First Storey Building offers a tangible connection to this past. Inside, visitors can see artifacts that tell stories of this transformative period. Among the most notable is Bishop Ajayi Crowther's first Yoruba Bible, a testament to the efforts in translating scripture and promoting literacy among the Yoruba people. The building also holds items related to the transatlantic slave trade, highlighting the complex and often brutal history intertwined with missionary work and colonial expansion in Badagry.
Many visitors find the experience deeply enlightening, especially when guided by knowledgeable locals. The curators and guides bring the history to life, making it more than just a visit to an old building, but an immersive journey into Nigeria's heritage. It's a place where history is not just read about, but felt and understood through its preserved structures and artifacts.
The Significance of Badagry's Historical Sites
Visitors often combine their trip to the First Storey Building with explorations of these other sites. The slave chains, the gin bottles (used as currency for slaves), and the prison rooms where slaves were held provide a stark visual and emotional experience. The 'Point of No Return' is a particularly poignant spot, marking the final departure point for enslaved Africans.
Many travelers recommend dedicating a full day to Badagry to fully appreciate its historical significance. The insights gained from visiting these sites, including the First Storey Building, are invaluable for anyone seeking to understand Nigeria's complex history and its enduring legacy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit