The United States and Nigeria have signed a $90,000 cultural preservation grant to safeguard the ancient Nok artifacts, one of West Africa’s most significant archaeological treasures.
Spearheaded by the Wheyham Foundation in partnership with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and the Yale University Art Gallery, the initiative aims to digitally document and secure Nok terracotta sculptures, which date back to 500 BCE in Kaduna State.
At the grant signing ceremony in Abuja, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Mrs. Hannatu Musawa, emphasized the project’s role in protecting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage from theft, deterioration, and neglect.
“This grant is a vital step in ensuring that the priceless Nok artifacts are preserved for future generations,” Musawa stated”.
“Through digital documentation, museum education workshops, and expert-led training, we are strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to protect and promote its historical treasures.”
The initiative will also enhance site security, develop educational documentaries, and establish a digital inventory of Nok artifacts, setting a national model for museum preservation efforts.
US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to cultural heritage protection, highlighting that preserving Nok artifacts is crucial to understanding West Africa’s ancient civilizations.
“This partnership will not only secure and restore Nok artifacts but also deepen global appreciation for Nigeria’s artistic and historical legacy,” Mills noted.
Chairman of the Wheyham Foundation, Yahaya Maikori, described the collaboration as a transformative cultural initiative, reinforcing the longstanding US-Nigeria partnership in heritage conservation.
“Cultural preservation is a shared responsibility that transcends borders,” Maikori stated. “This project marks a significant step toward securing and celebrating Nigeria’s artistic and historical legacy.”
As one of Africa’s oldest civilizations, the Nok culture is renowned for its distinctive terracotta sculptures, which remain an invaluable part of Nigeria’s archaeological and artistic identity.
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