The historic Egbo Egbo Bassey House in Calabar has undergone structural stabilisation, following funding support from Gerda Henkel Stiftung and the coordinated efforts of the Vernacular Heritage Initiative (VHI) in partnership with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).
Stabilisation and seal-up works on the century-old structure began in early April, led by conservation professionals under the direction of Dr. Obafemi Olukoya, Director of VHI. Speaking at the handover of the architectural documentation phase in Abuja, Dr. Olukoya said the current work marks an essential step toward full restoration.
“This is an essential intermediate step — structurally strengthening the building to pave the way for eventual restoration,” he said.
The Egbo Egbo Bassey House, situated in central Calabar, is one of the few surviving examples of colonial-era prefabricated architecture in Nigeria. It is named after Chief Egbo Egbo Bassey, a well-known Efik merchant and community figure, and once symbolised the economic and cultural identity of Calabar’s elite.
Over time, the building suffered significant deterioration due to neglect and environmental damage. The recent efforts began with structural framing on the ground floor using treated hardwoods, while masonry teams reinforced the foundation to address stability concerns, according to the lead engineer on site.
Local support for the project has been strong. His Highness Etinyin Ekpeyong Offiong Eyamba, village head of the area, visited the site and acknowledged the impact of the effort.
“This is a noble effort that breathes life back into our heritage. We thank Gerda Henkel Stiftung and the VHI team for preserving the soul of Duke Town,” he said.
Youth in the community have also responded. Edem Abasi, Youth Leader of Bocco Street, pledged support for the preservation of the site.
“We will form a volunteer group to safeguard this building from vandalism or intrusion,” he said, highlighting the role of young people in protecting the town’s cultural legacy.
The project’s completion of the stabilisation phase underscores the importance of international support and community involvement in preserving Nigeria’s cultural landmarks. The VHI team, with backing from Gerda Henkel Stiftung, continues to prepare for the next phase of restoration.
The Egbo Egbo Bassey House, once in a state of near-collapse, now stands stabilized, with its architectural and historical significance reaffirmed. Restoration work is expected to continue as stakeholders advocate for sustained investment in Nigeria’s heritage sites.
