A Study of Listing of Buildings and Monuments in Nigeria (1956-2009)

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of listed buildings, objects and structures in Nigeria. A study of listed buildings, objects and structures was undertaken to examine their number and condition. The paper discussed the importance of listed buildings to the environment in terms of architectural, historic and cultural significance. It examined the location, criteria and level of preservation and maintenance of such buildings, objects and structures in Nigeria. The study further looked at the origin of listing, listing in Britain and other parts of the world. Listing across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria was also undertaken through direct observation and review of collated data from relevant agencies in charge of listing of buildings in Nigeria. The research made some recommendations that will assist in the preservation of Nigeria`s cultural heritage and sense of identity. The study concludes that the regulatory body which is the National Commission for Museum and Monuments should take the opportunity of securing and preserving these buildings, objects and structures for the benefits of the wider generation to experience the buildings, objects and structures that have been declared as National figures in Nigeria.

Keywords: cultural heritage, environment, historic building, listed building, museum and monuments