Kwali community begins documentation of artefacts to boost tourism

The Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, has announced plans to document historical artifacts in Kwali community to enhance and promote tourism in the area.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja, the traditional ruler stated that the initiative would include factual accounts of potential tourist sites, particularly those linked to the renowned potter, Dr. Ladi Kwali.

Nizassan revealed that he had already identified and profiled various tourist attractions within the community, including the restored grave site of Kwali, “which is expected to boost the area’s tourism potential.

“This community holds the greatest tourism potential in the FCT because it is the home of Dr. Ladi Kwali. I am one of her grandsons,” he said.

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“Her gravesite has been developed, and we have documented all potential tourist sites. We are exploring ways to develop them so that the community can benefit from the tourism economy.”

He added that discussions had already began with the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Social Development Secretariat and the Director of Tourism on how to harness the area’s tourism potential.

“One step I have taken is to engage the services of archaeologists to date some of the historical remains we have,” he said.

“This is to enrich our history as a people and also to be able to have factual stories about these tourist sites.

“This is the best way to profile stories sites if there are true stories behind them and not myths.

“We want to tell the true stories about ourselves; to make sure that the dates are appropriate and built from proper facts.”

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The chief added that the move would also alter the false and misinterpretation of the history of people of Kwali community, as earlier presumed by some writers and historians.

He stated that presenting factual accounts directly from the indigenous people of the community would provide an authentic representation of its history, thereby attracting visitors to the unique settlement.

“We are working to discard inaccurate narratives and share the true stories about ourselves,” he said.

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“We believe that once these stories are shared, people will become curious to learn more about us and will visit our community.”

Nizassan also mentioned that his chiefdom was collaborating with private investors to develop resorts and hotels in the area.

According to him, this initiative will enable visitors to enjoy the serene environment as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

He described his people as hospitable and welcoming, adding that tourism would offer visitors a firsthand opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of the community.