By Ameh Gabriel
Nigeria Celebrates 2025 International Museum Day, Calls for Increased Funding and Tech Integration in Museums
The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) marked the 2025 International Museum Day with a colorful event held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja. Themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the celebration brought together policymakers, cultural stakeholders, and foreign diplomats to reflect on the role of museums in a fast-evolving world.
Chairman of the occasion, Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of preserving Nigeria’s cultural identity amidst global changes. He lauded the Commission’s efforts in promoting heritage conservation despite limited resources.
The keynote address was delivered by the Honorable Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa Esq., who underscored the need to future-proof Nigerian museums by embracing innovation, digital technology, and community partnerships. Represented at the event by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Muktar Yawalle, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to repositioning the cultural sector for economic growth and national pride.
In his welcome address, Director General of the NCMM, Mr. Olugbile Holloway, praised the resilience and dedication of museum staff across the country, despite budgetary constraints. He called for increased investment in the sector, noting that “museums are not just relics of the past but living institutions that connect us to our identity and inform our future.” Holloway also highlighted ongoing efforts by the NCMM to integrate social media and technology in museum operations, as a strategy to attract younger audiences and digitize heritage collections.
Delivering a special remark, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock, Chairman of the House Committee on Culture and Tourism, pledged the House of Representatives’ support to ensure better budgetary allocation to the cultural sector. “Nigeria must promote its rich heritage in all facets, and that begins with prioritizing institutions like museums,” he stated.
Cultural Ambassador of the Chinese Embassy, Yang Yangzi, delivered a goodwill message, applauding Nigeria’s strides in cultural preservation and expressing China’s interest in continued bilateral cultural exchange.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to cultural development and heritage preservation. Awardees included:
His Excellency Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Executive Governor of Cross River State
His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State
Senator Dr. Prince Ned Nwoko, Senator representing Delta State
General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff
Professor Rasaki Ojo Bakare, renowned theatre scholar and cultural advocate
The celebration ended on a high note, with a renewed commitment from government and stakeholders to reposition Nigerian museums as hubs of education, innovation, and tourism in a rapidly changing society.
