Ministry of Art, Culture, to launch facelift for Nigeria’s national museums

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy has announced a major initiative to refurbish and revitalize six national museums across Nigeria, a project aimed at preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The museums set for renovation include the National Museums in Ilorin, Birnin Kebbi, Uyo, and Owerri, as well as the Gidan Makama Museum in Kano State and the Zazzau Emirate Museum in Kaduna State. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), is expected to enhance the accessibility and presentation of Nigeria’s historical treasures to the public.

According to a statement from the Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, made during an event in New York on Thursday, the refurbishment project is slated to begin in October 2024. It will include infrastructure upgrades, improved security systems, and the incorporation of modern technologies to create interactive and educational spaces.

“Our museums are custodians of Nigeria’s culture and history. This refurbishment project will not only preserve our heritage for future generations but also promote cultural tourism and education in Nigeria.

“We are committed to making our museums more accessible, engaging, and reflective of our rich artistic tradition in line with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and our Ministry’s 8-Point Plan,” the Minister said.

The project will also involve local artisans, historians, and curators to ensure cultural authenticity and historical accuracy. By engaging these stakeholders, the Ministry aims to create jobs in the cultural sector and promote local economies.

The initiative is further seen as a way to inspire nationwide appreciation for Nigeria’s artistic and historical legacy.

Olugbile Holloway, the Director-General of the NCMM, expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s support, noting that the renovation is long overdue.

“The NCMM intends to focus not only on infrastructure upgrades but also on better curation and storytelling in our museums. We aim to revamp the guest and user experience, so when people visit the new spaces, they leave with a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage,” Holloway said.

The Ministry is calling on cultural organizations, educational institutions, and the general public to support this transformative project.

Regular updates will be provided through official channels as the initiative progresses, marking a significant step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural heritage for future generations while promoting creativity and innovation.