The National Museum in Lagos is wearing a new look, thanks to IHS Nigeria, a member of the IHS Holding Limited, which bankrolled the renovation of the facility.
The company, one of the largest independent owners, operators, and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world by tower count, also ensured facilities at the museum were upgraded for the use of members of the public.
IHS Nigeria collaborated with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments to give the facility a facelift.
The overall aesthetic appeal of the museum site was improved, with an extensive restoration of the main gallery, which incorporates the installation of modern display and lighting systems, air‑conditioning units, a solar inverter system to enhance energy efficiency, and surveillance cameras to aid safety, security and operational performance across the facility.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Ms Hannatu Musawa, at the commissioning, praised the organisation for supporting the long-term preservation of Nigeria’s cultural assets and heritage.
The Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Mr Olugbile Holloway, also thanked IHS Nigeria for the renovation, saying the gesture goes far beyond bricks and mortar, as it is a profound commitment to preserving the soul of the nation.
“The National Museum Lagos is home to some of Nigeria’s most treasured antiquities, from the ancient terracotta of the Nok civilisation to the magnificent bronzes of the Benin Kingdom and the classical works of Ife.
“To restore this institution is to restore our collective memory. We thank HIS Nigeria for choosing to renew not just infrastructure, but the heritage, identity, and hope of our people.
“Their support ensures that generations of Nigerians yet unborn will walk through these halls and encounter the full greatness of who we are and where we come from,” Mr Holloway said.
In his remarks, the chief executive of IHS Nigeria, Mr Mohamad Darwish, said, “Having seen the rich historical and cultural heritage housed in this national museum complex, we believed it was important to go a step further after supporting the development of the digital museum, to also improve the aesthetics, security and structural integrity of the main physical complex.
“This aligns with our broader commitment to sustainable infrastructure development and the preservation of Nigeria’s history. I am proud of these renovations and that visitors, including tourists, researchers and art enthusiasts, can visit the museum to be immersed in Nigeria’s rich history in an environment that is safe, beautiful and welcoming.
“The artefacts can also now be better preserved, protected and presented in a way that celebrates the history they represent. I thank the National Commission for Museums and Monuments for this ongoing partnership, which continues to exemplify the power of a collaborative effort in driving innovation, fostering national pride, and enhancing the creative economy.”