The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming museums across Nigeria into modern centers for preserving the nation’s rich cultural and historical heritage while driving tourism and economic growth.
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, made the pledge on Thursday in Abuja during the 2026 International Museum Day celebration organized by the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).
Represented by Ginika Nwafor-Orizu, the minister said the government is undertaking a comprehensive overhaul of museums through infrastructure upgrades, improved conservation practices, enhanced public access and strategic partnerships.
According to Musawa, museums must evolve beyond preserving historical artifacts to providing interactive and accessible experiences that stimulate the creative economy.
She stressed that Nigeria’s vast cultural heritage should be showcased globally to position the country as a preferred tourism destination.
“As we continue to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we recognize culture and heritage as critical drivers of sustainable development, tourism growth, job creation and economic prosperity.
“We must continue to work together to ensure our museums remain vibrant centers for education, research, innovation and dialogue for present and future generations,” she said.
Also speaking, the Minister of Defense, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), urged Nigerians to embrace their shared heritage as a tool for fostering unity and strengthening national security.
Represented by Musa Likita, the defense minister said lasting security is rooted not only in military strength but also in shared values, cultural understanding and national identity.
“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 commended the NCMM for its efforts in preserving Nigeria’s historical sites and cultural treasures.
Earlier, NCMM Director-General, Olugbile Holloway, described museums as vital custodians of national memory and global consciousness.
He noted that museum spaces offer enormous opportunities to boost tourism by showcasing Nigeria’s unique cultural heritage to the world.
“If people thousands of years ago could create masterpieces, then perhaps those works can inspire the next generation of creators and innovators,” Holloway said.
International Museum Day is coordinated annually by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) to promote public engagement, highlight the challenges facing museums, and underscore their role in education, research, and societal development.
The 2026 celebration, themed “Museums: Uniting a Divided World,” featured cultural dance performances, drama presentations, and other side attractions.
