About Freedom Park Lagos

Who We Are

…the journey of liberation

Freedom Park was born out of the ruins of Her Majesty's Broad Street Prison, reconstructed to preserve the history and cultural heritage of the Nigerian people. It was designed by architect Theo Lawson and opened on 1 October 2010 as part of Nigeria's 50th independence anniversary celebrations.

What was once a place of confinement — where political activists who fought for Nigeria's independence were held — is today a serene abode for contemplation and interaction, open to the public every day. Monuments across the park reveal Lagos' colonial heritage, and the site has become a favourite venue for concerts, festivals, exhibitions and community gatherings.

"A legacy of freedom — where the walls that once held activists now host the voices of a nation."

What the park stands for

• A National Memorial — honouring the struggle for independence.
• A Historical Landmark — preserving the fabric of the old Broad Street Prison.
• A Cultural Site — home to the Wole Soyinka Art Gallery and museum.
• An Arts & Recreation Centre — gardens, food court, amphitheatre and, since 2024, Nigeria's first skatepark.

In March 2024 the park welcomed WAF Skatepark, Nigeria's first skatepark, adding a new generation of Lagosian creativity to the grounds.