Stakeholders Call For Inclusive Museum Reform At National War Museum, Umuahia

A passionate call has been made to governments at all levels, traditional institutions, NGOs, and tourism enthusiasts to join forces in building a more inclusive, technology-driven, and community-engaged museum culture across Nigeria.

This urgent appeal was made during the 2025 International Day of Monuments and Sites / International Museum Day Celebration, held at the National War Museum, Umuahia, with the theme: “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”

In her welcome address, the Chairman of the occasion and Chairman of Heads of Federal Establishments in Abia State,Lady Gloria Abiakam,  urged the Abia state government to retrofit the National War Museum, describing it as a crucial step toward placing the state on the map of cultural excellence.

“Retrofitting this federal facility that lies on our soil will not only enhance its structural integrity and visitor experience but align seamlessly with the transformational agenda already being championed by our Governor,” Lady Abiakam stated.
“It is a truism that the first beneficiaries of this effort will be Abians — before the ripple effects reach the rest of the world. The museum’s revitalization will serve both the born and unborn, empowering young minds and promoting unity and historical awareness,” she added.

Lady Abiakam closed her address  reminding us that“Let this event not be seen as just another celebration, but as a rallying cry  to safeguard our monuments, invest in our museums, and nurture in our youth a deep pride in their history and heritage.”

Representing the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments,the acting curator of the National War Museum, Mrs. Stella Alao, highlighted the importance of embracing digital innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement, in line with global museum transformation trends.

The Abia State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mathew Ekwuruibe, noted that Abia State boasts of over 55 heritage sites, and the government is committed to revamping the National War Museum and Ojukwu Bunker before the end of 2025.

In a thought-provoking paper presentation,former Curator of the National War Museum, Owerri, Chief Chamberlain Nwosu,  emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to help museums fulfill their evolving roles in cultural preservation, education, and community development.

The celebration featured a vibrant blend of activities, including a quiz competition among schools, cultural performances, and prize-giving ceremonies, all aimed at reconnecting the younger generation with their roots.

The event that was well attended left participants inspired, with a renewed sense of duty to protect, preserve, and promote Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy.