• Calls on UNESCO for recognition
From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Enugu State government has proposed four historic sites in the state for consideration as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, affirming its renewed commitment to cultural preservation and global recognition of its unique heritage.
Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, made the disclosure during an event to mark the 2025 International Day for Monuments and Sites in Enugu. The theme of this year’s celebration was “Preserving the past, inspiring the future.”
According to the governor, the sites proposed include, the Nsude Pyramids made of ancient clay structures in Udi LGA bearing striking resemblance to the step pyramids of Egypt.
Another is the Lejja Iron Smelting Site, one of the oldest known iron-smelting sites in West Africa. The site dates back over 2,000 years and represents Africa’s early technological and industrial ingenuity.
Also the Zik’s Premier Residence, the first official residence of Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, which served as a cradle for nationalist movements and political leadership is part of the proposed sites.
Another site is the Okpoho Iron Site in Ezeagu which is a complementary site to Lejja, showcasing another vital hub of ancient iron technology and underlining the region’s interconnected historical narrative.
These monuments reflect early Igbo architectural sophistication and spiritual depth.
Mbah said that, “these sites, taken together, weave a powerful story of who we are — a people of innovation, leadership, and legacy. We urge UNESCO to partner with us in elevating these treasures to global recognition.”
Curator and Head of the South East Zone of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Aloysius Duru, emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the state government and cultural institutions in identifying and promoting these monuments.
“This is a unique opportunity to develop tourism prospects and position these sites for international acknowledgment,” he said.
The Director-General of the NCMM, Mr. Olugbile Holloway, raised concerns over threats to Nigeria’s cultural heritage, citing natural disasters, insecurity, and declining youth interest. He revealed that the Commission is working with international partners on the ‘State of Conservation Project’ to develop targeted preservation strategies.
Dr. Ijeoma Onyejekwe, in a keynote address, reflected on Enugu’s rich but scarred history, from colonialism and the slave trade to civil war, and emphasised the importance of restoration as a form of remembrance and resilience.
Communication expert Ajuluchukwu Edechiene, citing an NCMM field report, described the Nsude Pyramids as a remarkable testament to Igbo ingenuity.
Located in Ugwuto village, the ten pyramids were historically temples to the god ‘Uto’ and are central to the biennial Nkwa Festival that symbolizes the unity of Nsude’s ten villages.
Stakeholders at the event jointly called on UNESCO to consider Enugu’s proposal, noting that World Heritage recognition would not only safeguard the state’s cultural legacy but also unlock economic and educational opportunities for future generations.