The Agia Tree Monument in Badagry, Lagos State, stands as a significant historical landmark, commemorating the site where Christianity was first publicly preached in Nigeria. On September 24, 1842, under the expansive canopy of the Agia tree, Reverend Thomas Birch Freeman of the Wesleyan Methodist Mission delivered the inaugural Christian sermon in the country. This event marked the beginning of Christian evangelism in Nigeria, a pivotal moment in the nation’s spiritual and cultural history.
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Historical Context
Reverend Thomas Birch Freeman, born in England, was a pioneering missionary who played a crucial role in introducing Christianity to the Gold Coast (now Ghana) and later to Nigeria. Accompanied by his assistants, Freeman arrived in Badagry in September 1842 aboard the vessel “Queen Victoria.” The following day, he preached his first sermon under the Agia tree, known locally as “Asisoe Tin” in the Ogu language. This sermon laid the foundation for Christian missionary activities in Nigeria.
Just three months later, on December 25, 1842, Freeman and Reverend Henry Townsend, an Anglican missionary, conducted the first Christmas service in Nigeria under the same tree. This service was attended by local converts, repatriated slaves, and European settlers, marking a significant milestone in the spread of Christianity in the region.
Colonial Influence
The activities of missionaries in Badagry were closely linked to the broader colonial enterprise. While missionaries often operated independently, their presence facilitated British colonial interests by establishing a foothold in the region and promoting Western values and education. The spread of Christianity and Western education played a role in the eventual establishment of British colonial rule in Nigeria, influencing the nation’s political and social structures.
Legacy and Significance
Today, the Agia Tree Monument stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the introduction of Christianity in Nigeria. The monument, erected after the original Agia tree was uprooted by a storm in 1959, serves as a pilgrimage site for Christians and a symbol of the nation’s spiritual heritage. It attracts visitors from across Nigeria and beyond, who come to pay homage to the site where Christianity took root in the country.
The monument also serves as an educational resource, offering insights into Nigeria’s religious history and the role of missionaries in shaping the nation’s cultural and educational landscape. It stands alongside other historical sites in Badagry, such as the “Point of No Return,” a former slave port, highlighting the town’s complex history and its transformation from a center of the slave trade to a beacon of faith and education.
The Agia Tree Monument in Badagry is more than just a historical site; it is a symbol of the transformative power of faith and education. The events of September 24 and December 25, 1842, under the Agia tree, marked the beginning of Christianity in Nigeria, setting the stage for profound social, economic, and cultural changes. As a nation, Nigeria continues to draw inspiration from this pivotal moment in its history, reflecting on the enduring impact of the missionaries’ work and the resilience of the communities that embraced their message.
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Author’s Note
The Agia Tree Monument serves as a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s rich spiritual heritage and the pivotal role of Christianity in shaping the nation’s history. It underscores the importance of preserving historical sites that reflect the nation’s journey and the diverse influences that have contributed to its development. As we reflect on this significant milestone, it is essential to acknowledge the complexities of Nigeria’s past and the enduring legacies that continue to influence its present and future.
References
“The Agia Tree Monument in Badagry: Where Christianity First Took Root in Nigeria.” Facebook. Accessed October 21, 2025.
“The Agia Tree Monument: The First Gospel Preached.” Arinka Travels. Accessed October 21, 2025.
