The Enugu State government has proposed four historic sites in the state for consideration as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, affirming its renewed commitment to cultural preservation and global recognition of its unique heritage.
Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, made the disclosure during an event to mark the 2025 International Day for Monuments and Sites in Enugu. The theme of this year’s celebration was “Preserving the past, inspiring the future.”
According to the governor, the sites proposed include, the Nsude Pyramids made of ancient clay structures in Udi LGA bearing striking resemblance to the step pyramids of Egypt.
Another is the Lejja Iron Smelting Site, one of the oldest known iron-smelting sites in West Africa. The site dates back over 2,000 years and represents Africa’s early technological and industrial ingenuity.
Also the Zik’s Premier Residence, the first official residence of Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, which served as a cradle for nationalist movements and political leadership is part of the proposed sites.
Dr. Ijeoma Onyejekwe, in a keynote address, reflected on Enugu’s rich but scarred history, from colonialism and the slave trade to civil war, and emphasised the importance of restoration as a form of remembrance and resilience.
Communication expert Ajuluchukwu Edechiene, citing an NCMM field report, described the Nsude Pyramids as a remarkable testament to Igbo ingenuity.
Located in Ugwuto village, the ten pyramids were historically temples to the god ‘Uto’ and are central to the biennial Nkwa Festival that symbolizes the unity of Nsude’s ten villages.
Stakeholders at the event jointly called on UNESCO to consider Enugu’s proposal, noting that World Heritage recognition would not only safeguard the state’s cultural legacy but also unlock economic and educational opportunities for future generations.
Credit: The Sun