Nigerian, American researchers move to save archaeological monument

Researchers from universities in Nigeria and the United States of America have called on the government to urgently take steps to preserve Sungbo-Eredo, an archaeological monument that extends from Eredo, Epe in Lagos State to Ijebu in Ogun State, and turn it to a tourist attraction that will become a money spinner.

They stated this at a two-day conference held at Augustine University, Ilara- Epe, which was sponsored by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria through the Ambassador Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).

The researchers were drawn from the University of Ibadan (UI); Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ife, as well as Williams and Mary University, Virginia, United States.

The Principal Investigator, Prof. Gerard Chouin, and his team, who presented the LiDAR survey conducted on the monument to officials of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) described the survey as the first of its type in Africa.

“This is a significant milestone in the conservation and promotion efforts of this historic monument. It is the longest, single pre-industrial territorial earthwork known in Africa and beyond, encompassing an area approximately 1,000 square kilometers.

“The data collected will be used to generate public interest in the conservation of Sungbo-Eredo and guide public policies to organise and enforce the preservation of the monument, ” he said.

Chouin urged the government not to let the efforts put into gathering the data go in vain, saying the preservation of the monument be done for it to be listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Christopher Odetunde, said the workshop represented not only a landmark achievement in our collective efforts to preserve our rich cultural heritage but also the continued commitment of Augustine University to advancing academic excellence and research.

“We are especially excited to be hosting this event for the second time, building upon the successful workshop held on June 24th, 2021. The knowledge and insights gained from that initial gathering have paved the way for this momentous occasion, where we will present and transfer crucial LiDAR survey data. This data has been generously funded by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria through the Ambassador Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), underscoring the importance of international collaboration in our preservation efforts.”

NCMM Director General, Mr Olu Holloway, gave the assurance that the government would act on the issue with urgency.The Alara of Ilara-Epe, Oba Olukayode Ogunsanwo, expressed happiness that efforts were being made to conserve the historical monument.

“We are happy finally that something is being done to preserve this great historical monument. We have been trying our best, but there is little we can do. Now that the American government has shown interest and is even leading the way in preserving it, we hope our own government will also do the needful.