Nigeria Pioneers Cultural Heritage Digitisation through Strategic Partnership with IHS

Charles Ajunwa

Nigeria is set to digitise its cultural heritage through a transformative collaboration between IHS Nigeria, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy. The partnership will establish a digital museum to preserve and showcase Nigeria’s historical artifacts, artworks, and cultural monuments on a global scale, ensuring innovation and accessibility for generations to come.

IHS Nigeria, a global leader in shared communications infrastructure, brings its extensive expertise with over 40,000 towers in 10 countries to this initiative.

The project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Musawa’s Digital Culture Initiative, which is anchored on the ministry’s 8-point plan to foster strategic partnerships and drive sustainable growth in the creative industries. Musawa, who emphasised the significance of the collaboration said, “We are delighted to partner IHS Nigeria on this initiative, which aligns seamlessly with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and our ministry’s commitment to innovation, global partnerships, and the sustainable advancement of our creative industries. As the first major project under our Digital Culture Initiative, this endeavour positions Nigeria as a leader on the global stage while ensuring the preservation of our cultural legacy.

“This digital museum will leverage cutting-edge technology to provide virtual access to Nigeria’s cultural treasures, enabling students, researchers, and enthusiasts worldwide to explore and appreciate the nation’s rich heritage. The platform will serve as a vital educational and cultural resource while promoting sustainability and innovation in the creative sector.”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IHS Nigeria, Mohamad Darwish, said “This partnership reflects our commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage and fostering community development, education, and sustainability. Together, we aim to create a lasting legacy that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.”

Director General of NCMM, Olugbile Holloway, who also highlighted the importance of the initiative said, “This digital museum is an essential step toward engaging younger audiences and adapting to global trends. It will not only preserve our national heritage but also provide a platform for researchers, students, and the public to connect with our cultural history in an innovative and accessible way.”

This groundbreaking partnership represents a bold stride in cultural preservation and innovation, positioning Nigeria as a global leader in heritage digitisation while advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda’s vision for sustainable growth and development.

Rivers, and Bayelsa states attended the workshop, engaging in interactive sessions designed to enhance their professional expertise.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Finance Manager, BON Hotel Tripod, Owerri, Mr. Ashofor Akemegbeze, expressed gratitude to the organisers for delivering an impactful session.

He praised the high-quality training, noting that it exceeded expectations, especially for supervisory-level professionals.

According to the organisers, the next edition of the Middle Level Managers workshop will take place at Grand Hotel Asaba, Delta State.