2 weeks ago
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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The traditional ruler of Ham in Southern Kaduna, the Kpop Ham, Dr. Danladi Gyet Maude has said that Nigeria and the United States are committed to safeguarding Ham artifacts for future generations, just as he extended invitation to Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, US Ambassador to Nigeria, and Director General of National Museum Commission for the 2025 Tuk Ham Cultural Festival.
The monarch spoke shortly after the grand signing ceremony for the Nok cultural preservation project by the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, in partnership with the Wheyham Foundation and funded by the United States government.
The Kpop Ham, who is in his 55th years on the throne, formally disclosed that the Tuk Ham festival is an annual cultural celebration by the Ham people which serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and history of the Ham people, who are the custodians of the ancient Nok civilization.
“The 2025 Tuk Ham Festival will feature a grand exhibition of over 200 original Nok artworks in collaboration with the National Museum Commission. Additionally, the festival will present traditional music, dance, masquerades, and live displays of Nok artifacts, emphasizing the historical significance of Nok culture and its people, who primarily reside in Kaduna State and parts of Nasarawa State.”
“Tuk Ham continues to be a symbol of unity, cultural preservation, and tourism, attracting visitors, dignitaries, and scholars interested in the region’s remarkable history.”
According to him, the grant awarded for the preservation of Nok artifacts will bolster efforts to protect these globally recognized terracotta sculptures, which date back over 2,500 years and remain one of West Africa’s most significant archaeological and cultural treasures.
The Kpop Ham further explained that the initiative underscores the commitment of both Nigeria and the United States to safeguarding these invaluable artifacts for future generations.
In his remarks, the U.S. Ambassador, Richard Mills reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering dedication to cultural preservation and heritage protection.
He emphasized that the project will include digital documentation, museum education workshops, and site security measures to ensure the sustainable conservation of Nok artifacts.
Also, the Minister, Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa lauded the collaboration, describing it as a testament to the Nigerian government’s commitment to safeguarding its cultural heritage.
She noted, “This initiative is vital for ensuring that our cultural heritage is meticulously documented, preserved, and passed down to future generations. The digital inventory of Nok arts created through this project will serve as a model for museums across Nigeria, enhancing our capacity to document and protect artifacts nationwide.”
The Chairman of the Wheyham Foundation, Mr. Yahaya Maikori provided further insight into the project’s scope by stating that the initiative will include the documentation of artifacts in both private and public collections, the development of a virtual museum, and the renovation of the Nok Museum to provide an immersive experience for visitors.
“Additionally, educational outreach programs will play a crucial role in increasing awareness about our rich cultural heritage.”
“The collaboration between the Wheyham Foundation, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), and International partners will also feature expert led seminars, museum education programs, and enhanced security measures to prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural property.”
“This partnership stands as a significant milestone in preserving Nigeria’s historical legacy and promoting cultural heritage on a global scale.” Maikori said.
English (US) ·