Nigeria has stepped into the global spotlight with the inauguration of its first National Digital Museum, designed to preserve the nation’s cultural wealth while making it available to global audiences.
Unveiled on August 15 in Lagos, the museum was launched by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who hailed it as a groundbreaking step in the evolution of Nigeria’s cultural sector.
“Today, we stand at the threshold of a new era for Nigeria’s cultural heritage,” Musawa proclaimed. “This event is not merely a celebration of technological achievement; it is a testament to our nation’s enduring commitment to preserving, promoting, and sharing the richness of our history and creativity with the world.”
The NCMM Digital Museum is the first to showcase Nigerian antiquities in an immersive online environment. With virtual tours, multimedia storytelling, and interactive exhibitions, the project breaks geographical barriers, making the nation’s history accessible to both Nigerians and international audiences.
“This innovative project ensures that our stories, traditions, and creative expressions are preserved not only for today but for generations yet unborn,” Musawa said.
She acknowledged Nigeria’s cultural sector has long grappled with underfunding, infrastructural decline, and insecurity, but praised the resilience of the institutions that continue to protect the country’s identity.
The project is expected to cement Nigeria’s position alongside renowned global cultural institutions such as the Smithsonian and the Louvre.