The Curator and South-West Zonal Director of the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan, Mrs. Pamela Otuka Oriyomi, has described culture as the way of life of Africans, particularly Nigerians, stressing that cultural values and identity begin with the relationship between the mother and child.
Mrs. Oriyomi made the remarks during an interview with Oodua News while reflecting on the achievements of the National Museum of Unity since its establishment and the progress recorded since she assumed office as the institution’s 10th Curator in September 2022.
She acknowledged the contributions of her predecessors, noting that successive curators had played significant roles in advancing the growth and development of the museum over the years.
She said Culture if well observed and preserved in Nigeria can promote national cohesion such that would foster peace and national development in the country
According to her, culture remains a vital tool for national identity and social cohesion, urging Nigerians and Africans in general to embrace and preserve their cultural heritage in order to restore the continent and the country to their rightful place among nations.
“Culture is a way of life in Africa. It starts from the mother and child relationship. If we embrace our cultural values, it will help us regain our pride and reposition our society for sustainable development,” she said.
Mrs. Oriyomi disclosed that the National Museum of Unity remains open to visitors, including organisations, tertiary institutions, secondary schools and primary schools, emphasizing the need to expose children and young people to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
She maintained that such exposure would help sustain cultural development and equip younger generations with the knowledge of their history and the legacies of ancient civilizations.
The curator explained that the artefacts and relics preserved in the museum represent the lives, traditions and developmental milestones of people who lived in earlier times, adding that the records provide invaluable insights into the history and evolution of society.
“It is necessary to educate the younger generation about these developments and equip them with knowledge about ancient people and the remarkable achievements that characterized their era,” she stated.
Speaking on the progress recorded under her leadership, Mrs. Oriyomi said the museum’s management had prioritized collaboration with stakeholders and institutions to further promote its objectives and expand its reach.
She revealed that the museum recently showcased the achievements and legacies of the late Fuji music icon and originator of Fuji music, Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, through an exhibition featuring his photographs and notable works for visitors to appreciate.
According to her, the museum also displayed the bulletproof vehicle used by the late political leader and former Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, as part of efforts to preserve and celebrate the contributions of national heroes.
She explained that such exhibitions serve as reminders of the nation’s history and provide opportunities for younger generations to appreciate the sacrifices and achievements of those who shaped the country’s development.
Mrs. Oriyomi commended the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Mr. Olugbile Holloway, for his support and initiatives, which she said had greatly enhanced the activities and programmes of the museum since she assumed office.
Meanwhile, the National Museum of Unity, Aleshinloye, Ibadan, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a series of remarkable programmes aimed at promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage and preserving historical values.
The colourful event attracted cultural ambassadors, museum enthusiasts, traditional rulers, government officials and members of the public, who gathered at the museum premises to commemorate the institution’s golden jubilee.
The celebration featured cultural exhibitions and captivating performances by various dance troupes, highlighting the richness and diversity of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Observers described the anniversary celebration as a fitting tribute to five decades of preserving the nation’s history and fostering unity through culture, while reaffirming the museum’s commitment to educating future generations and promoting national identity through the preservation of historical artefacts and traditions.
