An Assistant Heritage Officer at the National Museum, Lagos, Miss Egwuoniso Onisokien, Thursday said Nigeria’s rich history is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of resilience, innovation and cultural brilliance that span centuries.
Speaking on issues of national interest, she pointed out that, from the bustling creeks of the Niger Delta to the ancient savannas of the northern heartlands, Nigeria’s national monuments stand as silent, yet eloquent narrators of the stories told by our ancestors’ tales that have profoundly shaped our national identity.
She said these sites are not mere relics; they are living testaments to the ingenuity and spirit of Nigerians past and present.
She stated further that in an era where globalisation often overshadows local heritage, it is crucial for every Nigerian young and old to rediscover and cherish these treasures.
“Let’s embark on a journey through four extraordinary national monuments that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary, offering insights into our shared past while inspiring pride in our diverse cultural mosaic,” she said.
She added that King Jaja of Opobo Memorial Site, Rivers state, nestled in the historic town of Opobo and noted that the site features a striking bronze statue commemorating King Jaja, a remarkable figure born into slavery in 1821 as Jubo Jubogha. But through sheer determination and business acumen, he rose to become a powerful merchant king, founding the Kingdom of Opobo in 1869 after a strategic relocation from Bonny.