Nigeria is embarking on an important initiative to safeguard and promote its diverse Cultural Heritage to a wider audience through an innovative collaboration that blends tradition with modern technology. IHS Nigeria, a leading telecommunications Infrastructure provider, has partnered with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) alongside the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy (FMACCE). Their goal is to establish Nigeria’s first digital museum, a virtual platform intended to provide individuals everywhere with access to the country’s historical treasures, artistic creations, and cultural landmarks, irrespective of their geographic position.
The initiative for a digital museum represents a fundamental aspect of the Federal Ministry’s Digital Culture Initiative, which is designed to enhance the preservation and display of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. Through digitising cultural treasures, this program aims to safeguard Nigeria’s legacy against the threats of physical deterioration while ensuring that it is readily available for educational, research, and entertainment activities. The collaboration emphasises the importance of digital archiving, reflecting international movements and addressing the growing need for easily available cultural resources in a technology-centric society.
Thousands of historical artifacts will be converted into digital formats.
Furthermore, IHS Nigeria plans to harness advanced Technology to convert thousands of cultural and historical artifacts owned by the NCMM into digital formats. This will promote the preservation of culture and inspire younger generations to connect with the history of Nigeria in a way that aligns with today’s digital landscape. The digital museum will serve as an essential learning tool, providing scholars, students, and historians across the globe with an extraordinary insight into Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy.
This collaboration transcends technology; it signifies a commitment to sustainability, education, and the preservation of culture. Mohamad Darwish, the CEO of IHS Nigeria, highlighted that this project stems from a duty to honour the nation’s cultural heritage. Being a company closely tied to Nigeria, they understand the significance of safeguarding, honouring, and advancing identity. This collaboration reflects their commitment to educational advancement, economic progress, and community enhancement. They are eager to contribute to safeguarding Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
Strategic collaborations will be promoted in the creative sector.
It is a significant achievement for Nigeria, establishing the nation as a frontrunner in the global movement to digitise and make cultural heritage accessible to all. Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, emphasised how this initiative reflects the goals outlined in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. She emphasised that this initiative reflects the Ministry’s dedication to promoting strategic collaborations, innovative approaches, and sustainable advancement in the creative sector. This project, the inaugural major endeavour of their Digital Culture Initiative, showcases their commitment to establishing Nigeria as an international frontrunner in the creative space.
Olugbile Holloway, the Director-General of NCMM, commended IHS Nigeria for its participation. He highlighted the importance of this digital shift for safeguarding heritage while promoting Nigeria’s vibrant cultural legacy on a global stage. The online museum will be an essential tool for the wider community, both within Nigeria and around the globe. It will not only preserve Nigeria’s heritage but also serve as a learning resource for educational institutions, stimulate the creative sectors, and attract visitors interested in cultural experiences.
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Lastly, it will facilitate straightforward engagement with Nigeria’s treasures, enabling people worldwide to delve into the nation’s rich heritage from anywhere. This accessibility is expected to promote a greater understanding and admiration for Nigeria’s historical and cultural practices within and beyond its borders. Aside from focusing on preservation, this initiative holds significant promise for Nigeria’s digital landscape and creative industries. It aims to generate employment opportunities, draw in investments, and promote technological advancements nationwide. This partnership showcases Nigeria’s increasing acknowledgement of the creative sector as a vital player in the country’s development efforts.