In a significant move to preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, a non-governmental organisation – Legacy has unveiled an ambitious plan to restore historic building located within the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) compound in Ebute Metta, Lagos.

The project, dubbed ‘Restoring Ilukwe House – A Research Centre Promoting Nigeria’s Heritage,’ is a collaborative effort with the Heritage Management Organisation and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

The initiative aims to serve as a beacon of inspiration and a practical educational resource for architects, students, and other professionals passionate about preserving Nigeria’s historical structures.

Trustee and Co-founder of Legacy, Kofo Adeleke, told The Guardian that Legacy is working on a restoration plan for Ilukwe House, one of the iconic buildings within the Railway Compound. “Our goal is to educate Nigerians on the importance of purposeful restoration and inspire future generations to take an active role in preserving our national heritage,” she stated.

Adeleke highlighted the risks of neglecting historic buildings, emphasising that their loss leads to the erosion of cultural identity and historical continuity. “When historic buildings and sites are neglected and eventually disappear, we lose not only the physical structures but also the stories, traditions, and artistic achievements they represent.”

“Future generations will be deprived of tangible connections to the past, and with that loss comes a diminished sense of identity and understanding of our history,” she explained.

“Legacy has a long-standing history of involvement in restoration projects across Nigeria. In 1998, four sites within the historic Railway Compound in Ebute Metta, including three buildings and a running shed, were entrusted to a joint NRC/Legacy committee in perpetuity.

“One of these buildings, constructed around 1902 and once a derelict property, was renamed Jaekel House after Francis Jaekel, a former Chief Superintendent of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) who authored a comprehensive three-volume history of the Nigerian railways.

“The restoration of Jaekel House was completed in 2010, transforming it into the Legacy Secretariat. The building, surrounded by an expansive garden, now houses a mini museum open to the public and has become a popular site for school excursions, attracting thousands of schoolchildren each year,” Adeleke said.

She further explained that the preservation and restoration of heritage sites are crucial not only for maintaining cultural continuity but also for their economic and educational benefits. Restored historic buildings and sites can boost tourism, contribute to the economy, and provide rich opportunities for learning and research.

“Artisans from the local community also play a crucial role in the restoration process, contributing their skills in woodwork, ironmongery, and masonry. These traditional crafts passed down through generations, are integral to the restoration process and help to strengthen the local economy by providing jobs and preserving valuable skills,” she said

Adeleke said the preservation and restoration of historical sites in Nigeria is threatened by several factors. “Rapid urbanisation and economic growth demands often result in the loss of historic buildings, which are replaced with modern infrastructure. There is a failure in urban planning to protect heritage buildings and areas of cultural importance.

“In developing countries like Nigeria, there are other priorities seen as more urgent. Another factor is the lack of expertise in conservation and restoration. It also helps if there are robust legal frameworks that protect these sites and encourage public participation and support in making it happen,” she said.

She stated that securing funding for restoration projects in Nigeria is a complex and challenging task, especially with the current economic challenges. “Preservation and restoration of heritage buildings and sites is often very expensive, especially in developing countries like Nigeria.

“Legacy adopts a variety of strategies to secure funding, including networking with other heritage organisations both locally and internationally. Collaboration with these organisations can lead to grant opportunities, resource sharing, and knowledge exchange. Given the economic challenges, it is crucial to diversify fundraising activities, seek corporate sponsorships, and develop innovative ways to raise funds,” Adeleke added.