On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, a groundbreaking conference titled “Nigeria’s Heritage in the Time of Climate Crisis” was held at the University of Lagos. The event, organized by Professor Olufemi Adetunji, was supported by ICOMOS Nigeria, the University of Lincoln, the British Academy UK, and Legacy 1995 Nigeria.
The conference brought together renowned experts, scholars, and policymakers to discuss the urgent need to protect Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage in the face of increasing climate change threats. Participants explored a wide range of topics, including the impact of climate change on historical sites, cultural landscapes, and intangible heritage.
Key Discussions and Outcomes
- Climate Change and Heritage Sites: Experts analyzed the specific vulnerabilities of Nigeria’s heritage sites to climate change, such as flooding, erosion, and extreme weather events.
- Innovative Conservation Techniques: The conference highlighted the importance of adopting innovative conservation techniques and technologies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on heritage sites.
- Community Engagement and Awareness: Participants emphasized the crucial role of community engagement and awareness-raising campaigns in safeguarding cultural heritage.
- Policy and Governance: The need for effective policies and governance frameworks to address climate change and heritage was a central theme of the conference.
“Nigeria’s heritage is a precious resource that must be protected for future generations. This conference has shed light on the urgent challenges we face and the innovative solutions we need to implement,” said Professor Olufemi Adetunji, the conference organizer.
The conference, attended by various stakeholders and actors, served as a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the development of strategies to safeguard Nigeria’s cultural heritage. By addressing the challenges posed by climate change, we can ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and benefit from our rich cultural legacy.