US Provides $400,000 To Preserve Ancient Nigerian Earthworks
The United States Mission to Nigeria has concluded a five-year project aimed at preserving and documenting Sungbo’s Eredo, a historic 100-mile system of earthworks in South-West Nigeria. The project, funded by a $400,000 grant from the US Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) in 2019, highlights the US’s commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage and fostering international collaboration.
Sungbo’s Eredo, built between 800-1000 C.E. as part of the Yoruba Ijebu Kingdom, is believed to be one of the largest ancient cities in the world. The grant supported the College of William and Mary’s use of advanced remote sensing and 3D scanning technology to comprehensively document the site. In addition to collecting survey data, the project designed a conservation strategy for two five-mile sections of the earthwork and helped raise awareness to support its nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During a ceremonial handover of the project’s survey data to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) on December 10, US Deputy Chief of Mission, David J. Greene, emphasized that cultural heritage preservation strengthens international bonds and connects future generations to their history.
“Preserving cultural heritage strengthens the bonds between nations and connects future generations to their history,” Greene said. He also noted that over the past five years, the United States had allocated $1.2 million to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage through 15 AFCP projects across 21 states.
The survey data will play a crucial role in planning restoration efforts and developing strategies to protect Sungbo’s Eredo from natural disasters. This initiative underscores the enduring partnership between the US and Nigeria in safeguarding cultural landmarks, such as the Sukur UNESCO Heritage Site and the Busanyin Shrine in the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove.
The US Mission looks forward to continuing its work with Nigerian partners, like the NCMM, and international institutions, to preserve and celebrate Nigeria’s extraordinary cultural legacy for future generations.
