Culture Minister announces a major refurbishment initiative for six national museums

***Aims to enhance public access and preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy has announced a transformative initiative to refurbish six national museums across Nigeria, including notable locations in Ilorin, Birnin Kebbi, Uyo, Owerri, Kano, and Kaduna.
The Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musaw spoke in New York on Thursday, indicating that the significant project underscores the Ministry’s commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and enhancing public access to the nation’s historical treasures.
Special adviser on media and publicity Dr. Nneka Nkem Anibeze in a statement indicated that the project launch which is set for October 2024 is aimed at enhanced infrastructure, security, and exhibit spaces to preserve the country’s rich cultural heritage and improve public access.
She quoted Barrister Musawa to have emphasized the importance of the initiative in promoting cultural tourism and education.
According to her, the project will incorporate modern technologies and engage local artisans to ensure authenticity and historical accuracy.
According to the statement, the Ministry is encouraged collaboration from cultural organizations and the public to support the undertaking, which is aimed to safeguard Nigeria’s cultural legacy for future generations.
The statement reads, “The refurbishment program, set to begin in October 2024, will focus on infrastructure upgrades, enhanced security systems, and improved exhibit spaces.
“By incorporating modern technologies and sustainable practices, the initiative seeks to create interactive and educational environments that celebrate Nigeria’s diverse cultural legacy.
“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 project will engage local artisans, historians, and curators to ensure the upgraded monuments are culturally represented and historically accurate. The initiative is expected to create numerous job opportunities within the cultural sector, supporting local economies and fostering nationwide appreciation for the arts.
In his remarks, the Director General of, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Olugbile Holloway, said that the renovation was to enable better storytelling of our museums and monuments.
“The renovation of our museums is a long overdue exercise and the NCMM appreciates the Ministry’s strong support for this initiative. The NCMM intends not to only focus on infrastructure upgrades, but also
better curation and better storytelling in our museums.