International Museum Day 2024 Celebrated at China Cultural Center in Nigeria

On May 23, 2024, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, hosted “2024 International Museum Day Celebration” at the China Cultural Center in Nigeria. The event themed with "Museum for Education and Research" highlighted the role of museums in fostering education and research, bringing together an array of distinguished guests.

event site (photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

The ceremony commenced with the national anthem and an introduction of dignitaries, followed by the traditional breaking of the kolanut. Key attendees included members of the National Assembly, the Director General of various agencies under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, representatives of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, the Director of the Nigerian Army Museum alongside top military generals, the Inspector General of Police (represented), the Royal Father of the Day, Sa'peyi of Garki Emirate Abuja, Mr. Li Xuda, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, and the DG of the NCMM among other important dignitaries.

In his welcome address, the DG of NCMM expressed gratitude to the attendees for their participation. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, represented at the event, also delivered remarks emphasizing the significance of cultural preservation.

Students from various schools showcased their talents through presentations in different dialects, celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity. Mr. Li Xuda, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, praised the NCMM for their efforts and highlighted recent achievements and future plans for cultural cooperation between China and Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of the new subcommittee for promoting bilateral cultural exchanges and proposed three initiatives: strengthening cooperation between museums, resuming mutual visits by museum experts, and implementing capacity-building programs.

Mr. Li Xuda delivering his goodwill message (photo by Mrs. Chen Huiling)

Dr. Ben-ogu, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, delivered a goodwill message, followed by remarks from the Royal Father of the Day. The event featured vibrant cultural dance displays and a paper presentation by Dr. Sunday Adaka from the Federal University of Lafia, discussing the educational potential of museums.

The celebration continued with cultural performances by students representing Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Fulani cultures. Prizes were awarded to winners of the painting and quiz competitions, with consolation prizes for other participants. Notably, the Governor of Taraba State, represented at the event, and the Chinese Embassy received institutional awards for their contributions.

Mrs. Evelyn Osuagwu, Acting Director of Museums, gave the vote of thanks, bringing the event to a close. The celebration concluded with a tour of the exhibition, allowing attendees to appreciate the showcased cultural artifacts.

By Mr. Salim Ahmed