20/05/2026
NATIONAL MUSEUM, AKURE MARKS 2026 INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY WITH THE FOCUS OF PROMOTING UNITY THROUGH CULTURE
The National Commission for Museums and Monuments through the National Museum, Akure successfully hosted the 2026 International Museum Day (IMD) celebration on Wednesday, 20th May, 2026, under the global theme, “Museums: Uniting a Divided World.” The colourful event brought together traditional rulers, government officials, scholars, students, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the public in celebration of culture, unity, and heritage preservation.
In his goodwill message delivered by the Curator, Mrs. Adegboye Janet Yemisi, the Director-General of NCMM, Olugbile Holloway, emphasized the role of museums in promoting peace, dialogue, and unity despite global divisions. He also highlighted innovations within the Commission, including Nigeria’s first digital museum and the upgrade of the Lagos exhibition gallery through the support of IHS Towers.
Mrs. Adegboye Janet Yemisi appreciated staff, sponsors, and supporters for their commitment to preserving cultural heritage and disclosed that the celebration featured landmark activities, including the unveiling of Museum Spectacle, the museum’s official publication, and the presentation of its first-ever IMD coloured programme brochure. A projector donated by Honourable Sunday Oluwadamilare Falae, an associate of Gbenga Aluko, was also unveiled to support the museum’s educational activities.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the event, Dr. Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, represented by Mr. Ogungbemi Sunday, described museums as centres of learning, unity, and cultural exchange, while Chairman, Organising Committee, Mr. Adeola Jonath Morakinyo noted that museums remain important institutions for social cohesion and dialogue.
The event featured a lecture titled “Museums Uniting a Divided World” delivered by Mr. Ilesanmi Augustine Lisa, as well as a quiz competition among museum partners and vendors.
Awards were presented to distinguished personalities for their contributions to cultural promotion. Thomas-Wilson Ikubese received the Cultural Icon and Patron of National Museum, Akure award, while Gbenga Aluko was honoured as Cultural Youth Ambassador, National Museum, Akure, 2026–2027.
The celebration was enriched by colourful performances from schools and dance groups across Akure, featuring cultural dances, drama, fashion parades, traditional music, and cooking displays that showcased Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
As part of the celebration, the museum also embarked on a cultural excursion to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Samuel Adejimi Adu Alagbado, Ogoga of Ikere - Ekiti on 18th May, 2026.
The event ended with a vote of thanks delivered by Adeola Jonath Morakinyo, who appreciated guests, sponsors, schools, cultural groups, volunteers, media representatives, and staff for contributing to the success of the celebration, while renewing calls for unity, peace, and stronger support for museums.