The United States Embassy in Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism Partners on $90,000 grant to safeguard Nok artifacts

The United States Embassy in Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy have signed a $90,000 grant agreement to support the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, with a focus on the ancient Nok artifacts.

The initiative, to be executed by the Wheyham Foundation in collaboration with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and the Yale University Art Gallery, aims to document, protect, and promote Nigeria’s archaeological treasures.

Speaking at the grant signing ceremony in Abuja, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Mrs. Hannatu Musawa, described the project as a critical step in safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural legacy.

She emphasized the historical significance of Nok terracotta artifacts, which date back to 500 BCE in Kaduna State.“The grant will ensure Nigeria’s cultural heritage is carefully safeguarded and passed down to future generations,” Musawa stated.

“The project includes digital documentation, museum education workshops, and specialized training for NCMM staff, led by experts from Yale University.”

Musawa noted that the digital inventory of Nok artifacts will serve as a model for museums across Nigeria, bolstering the nation’s capacity to protect and manage its cultural assets.

US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating that preserving Nok artifacts would deepen global understanding of the history and identity of the Nok people.

“This project will facilitate a digital inventory, museum education workshops, and the refurbishment of exhibition and archive spaces at the Nok Museum,” Mills said.

Chairman of the Wheyham Foundation, Mr. Yahaya Maikori, described the collaboration as part of the United States’ ongoing commitment to cultural preservation in Nigeria.

“This initiative reinforces the strong partnership between the United States and Nigeria in protecting and celebrating shared human history,” Maikori stated.

“Cultural preservation transcends borders, and this project marks a significant step in securing Nigeria’s artistic and historical legacy.”

The Nok culture, one of West Africa’s oldest known civilizations, is celebrated for its distinctive terracotta sculptures, which remain a vital part of Nigeria’s historical and artistic heritage.

Reporting by Daniel Adejo; Editing by Julian Osamoto