NCMM partners with IGA Nigeria Limited to develop a Cultural Heritage Trail Framework, promoting heritage preservation and sustainable tourism in Nigeria

In a historic move to protect and promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) has entered into a partnership with IGA Nigeria Limited.

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The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both parties marks a significant step towards the creation of a structured Cultural Heritage Trail Framework.

The agreement, which was signed by Olugbile Holloway, Director-General of the NCMM, and Mogbolahan Ajala, CEO of IGA Nigeria Limited, aims to enhance the preservation of Nigeria’s diverse cultural assets while promoting sustainable tourism.

The collaboration is also designed to integrate IGA’s Stakeholder Call to Action framework into the review and update of Nigeria’s National Tentative List, which is crucial for the protection of heritage sites across the country.

The initial phase of the project will focus on the Southwestern states – Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo – with Lagos and Osun serving as the pilot locations.

The aim is to leverage IGA’s ongoing consultancy efforts in these regions, setting the stage for a broader national implementation.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Holloway emphasised the importance of the partnership: “This MoU marks a significant step in our efforts to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage for future generations while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.”

Ajala, for his part, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating: “By working with NCMM, we aim to create a well-structured framework that not only preserves cultural heritage but also revitalises local communities and fosters economic growth.”

The collaboration promises to bring together the strengths of both organisations in an effort to safeguard Nigeria’s historical sites and cultural landmarks.

By combining expertise in heritage management and sustainable development, the NCMM and IGA Nigeria aim to establish a model for preserving Nigeria’s rich culture while contributing to the economic and social development of local communities.

The framework’s development is expected to attract both local and international tourists, bolstering Nigeria’s tourism industry while ensuring the long-term protection of its cultural treasures.