International Museum Day: Our museums, our history -Lalong

As the international community celebrates the International Museum Day (IDM) 2022, Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau restated that museums are an embodiment of the country’s history.

He said this during the 2022 celebration of the International Museum Day entitled: “The Power of Museums as Cultural Hubs: The future of tradition” held on Tuesday in Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that The International Council of Museums established International Museum Day in 1977 to increase public awareness of the role of museums in the development of society.

Lalong who was represented by Mrs Tamwakat Weli, the state’s Commissioner for Tourism, explained the importance of the day, while also urging the public to embody the culture of the museum.

“May I reiterate that museums continue to serve as a vital means of documenting and showcasing our history and identity.

“Because our museums are our history, I must call on the world to ignite and drive the debate towards the need to protect and support the restoration of our history.

“We must embody the culture of our museums as they provide an effective means for exchange of knowledge and a medium of transition of our culture from generation to generation” he said.

Weli thanked the state government for the enabling environment for tourism to thrive in the state.

“I wish to commend and appreciate Gov. Simon Lalong on the giant strides in the tourism and cultural industry thus far.

“For placing the industry on the front burner of his administration and also for providing the enabling environment for us to celebrate activity such as this.

“Without peace and security, this event would not have been possible” she said.

NAN reports that the Jos Museum recorded a large number of participants from various ethnic groups.

The event also featured several cultural displays from cultural troups within the state and neighbouring communities such as Eggon from Nasarawa State and Tiv from Benue.