Preserving Nigeria's Legacy: Inside the National Museum in Onikan, Lagos

The National Museum Lagos boasts an extensive collection estimated at 47,000 objects, crafted from various materials including wood, ivory, metal, and terracotta.

Stepping into the Nigerian National Museum vicinity, in Onikan, Lagos, one is struck by the meticulous effort deployed to the facility's preservation since its establishment in 1957. 

The fence is adorned with paintings depicting the seven wonders of Nigeria. Amidst the greenery stood the "Jollof pot on wheels" sculpture, while on the far-right end, there is a children's park.

This beautiful sight is usually unexpected for a first-time visitor, as many historical sites and tourist attractions in Nigeria are often found in a state of disrepair. 

The National Museum in Onikan, Lagos, however, stands as a notable exception. Established by the English archaeologist, Kenneth Murray, it serves as one of Nigeria's oldest and most esteemed museums. Its primary purpose is to safeguard various historical artefacts, offering a glimpse into the nation's rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Originally known as the Lagos Museum, the institution was later renamed the National Museum to acknowledge its ro…