By Ogah Adikpe
Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to revamping museums across the country to position them as modern repository for Nigeria’s cultural and historic heritage.
She stated this at an event organised by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) to celebrate the 2026 International Museum Day (IMD) on Thursday in Abuja.
The minister, who was represented by Princess Ginika Nwafor-Orizu , said the ministry was revamping museums through infrastructural rehabilitation, improved conservation practices, enhanced public access, and strategic partnership.
She said in line with modern realities, there was need to balance the preservation of historical artifacts with accessible, interactive experiences and as well boost the creative economy.
According to her, the nation has rich cultural and historic heritages, as well as artifacts which need to be showcased to the world to make Nigeria a choice tourist destination.
“As we continue to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, we recognise culture and heritage as critical drivers of sustainable development, tourism growth, job creation, and economic growth.
“Therefore, stakeholders must continue to work together to ensure that our museums remain vibrant spaces for education, research, innovation, and dialogue for present and future generations,” she said.
Also speaking, the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), called on citizens to cherish their heritage and work together against forces that want to divide them.
Represented by Mr Musa Likita, the minister said true security is built on national shared values, cultural understanding, and a common sense of purpose.
“When citizens understand and appreciate their history and heritage, they become more resilient against forces that seek to divide them through extremism, misinformation, and hatred,” he said.
He lauded the NCMM and its leadership for championing initiatives that preserve Nigeria’s historical sites and cultural treasures.
Earlier in his welcome address, Mr Olugbile Holloway, NCMM’s Director-General, said museums function as indispensable, physical anchors for both national and global conscience.
According to him, the museum space is a very good opportunity to boost tourism by showcasing Nigeria’s cultural heritage because people all over the world are very interested in Nigerian culture.
“If people thousands of years ago could create masterpieces, then perhaps those pieces can inspire the next generation of creators and the next generation of people,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the annual International Museum Day is coordinated by the International Council of Museums (ICOM).
It provides the opportunity for museum professionals to meet the public and alert them as to the challenges that museums face, and raise public awareness on the role museums play in the development of society.
It also promotes dialogue between museum professionals and highlights a specific theme which changes every year, reflecting a relevant theme or issue facing museums internationally.
“This year’s theme is “Museums: Uniting a Divided World”.
The event featured cultural dance and drama presentations, among other attractions.(NAN)
Edited by Joshua Olomu