Rita Odafe
The government under President Tinubu has unveiled plans to renovate and enhance six national museums in Nigeria.
This initiative was announced on Friday by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, detailing that the targeted museums include the National Museums in Ilorin, Birnin Kebbi, Uyo, and Owerri, as well as the Gidan Makama Museum and the Zazzau Emirate Museum located in Kebbi and Kaduna respectively.
Nneka Ikem, a media aide to Minister Hannatu Musawa, highlighted that this project aims to safeguard Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
In collaboration with the National Museums and Monuments Commission, the initiative seeks to preserve Nigeria’s cultural wealth and ensure that historical artefacts are accessible to everyone.
The refurbishment is scheduled to begin in October 2024 and will encompass infrastructure improvements, enhanced safety measures, and redesigns of exhibition areas.
By integrating innovative technologies and eco-friendly practices, the plan aspires to create educational and enjoyable environments that celebrate the diverse aspects of Nigerian culture.
Musawa remarked that the initiative reflects the ministry’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s extensive cultural heritage while improving public engagement with the nation’s historical assets.
“Our museums hold the key to Nigeria’s cultural narrative. This refurbishment will not only safeguard our heritage for the future but also boost cultural tourism and education within Nigeria,” she stated.
“We aim to enhance accessibility and engagement in our museums, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and our Ministry’s 8-Point Plan,” the announcement continued.
The project will also involve partnerships with local artisans, historians, and curators to ensure that the renovations maintain cultural significance and historical integrity.
This initiative is projected to create numerous job opportunities in the cultural field, strengthening local economies and fostering a wider appreciation for the arts across the nation.
Olugbile Holloway, Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, pointed out that the renovations aim to improve the storytelling capabilities of the museums and historical sites.
Holloway expressed, “The upgrade of our museums is a much-awaited project, and the NCMM is grateful for the Ministry’s robust support for this endeavor. We plan to enhance not just the infrastructure but also the curation and storytelling aspects of our museums.
“The overall experience for visitors will be transformed, and we hope that upon entering the revamped spaces, individuals will be inspired and leave with a deeper understanding of our rich cultural heritage.”
