ABUJA-
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting indigenous peoples, preserving cultural heritage and advancing sustainable community development as stakeholders gathered in Abuja to commemorate the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on August 13, 2026.
The high-level event was organised by Green Time Ecology and Sustainable Initiative, led by its host, Dr. Charity Akpamgbo, in strategic collaboration with UNESCO, the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, and the Ministry of Environment.
The gathering brought together senior government officials, international organisations, traditional institutions, civil society groups, cultural custodians and indigenous community representatives to advance conversations around indigenous rights, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and inclusive development.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Ministers of the Federal Capital Territory, Health, Defence and Foreign Affairs, alongside representatives of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Women Development Center, National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), the Esuk of Kwali and other stakeholders.
Indigenous Knowledge as a Tool for Sustainable Development
In her welcome address, Dr. Charity Akpamgbo highlighted the mission of Green Time Ecology and Sustainable Initiative, particularly its commitment to grassroots ecological action, the protection of indigenous knowledge systems and the relationship between environmental conservation and the survival of indigenous identities.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Ifeanyi, UNESCO Cultural Sector Head, reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to protecting indigenous languages, territories and cultural expressions.
He emphasised the important role indigenous communities play as custodians of biodiversity, noting that traditional ecological knowledge should form an integral part of contemporary climate action and environmental sustainability frameworks.
Culture and Tourism as Drivers of Inclusive Growth
The Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy used the occasion to outline government efforts aimed at mapping, protecting and promoting Nigeria’s indigenous creative assets, cultural heritage and tourism resources.
The Minister underscored the economic potential of Nigeria’s diverse cultural assets, particularly their capacity to generate employment, stimulate tourism, empower communities and contribute to inclusive national development.
The emphasis placed on indigenous heritage also reinforces the growing recognition that Nigeria’s cultural diversity is not merely a historical resource but a significant component of the country’s tourism economy and international cultural diplomacy.
Stakeholders Call for Greater Protection of Indigenous Communities
Goodwill messages at the event further broadened the conversation.
The Director-General of NTA stressed the importance of the media in amplifying indigenous voices, local narratives and cultural traditions through national broadcasting.
The Director-General of NCAC highlighted the importance of arts, crafts and traditional expressions in strengthening Nigeria’s cultural identity and projecting the country’s cultural soft power globally.
The Women Development Center drew attention to the crucial role of indigenous women in seed preservation, family welfare, environmental stewardship and community development, while the National Council for Women Societies advocated policies that protect vulnerable indigenous families and promote grassroots socio-economic advancement.
The Esuk of Kwali provided traditional perspectives on land custodianship, local governance and heritage protection within the Federal Capital Territory.
Mr. Ikenna Nwosu also called for stronger partnerships, unity and sustained civic advocacy in support of indigenous communities.
Climate Justice, Land Rights and Indigenous Healthcare Take Centre Stage
A major highlight of the celebration was an interactive panel discussion involving experts, environmentalists and cultural custodians.
Discussions focused on critical issues including climate justice, land rights, preservation of indigenous healthcare systems and the protection of cultural heritage from the pressures of rapid urbanisation.
The discussions underscored the need for indigenous communities to be active participants in policy development, particularly on issues affecting their ancestral lands, environment, culture and livelihoods.
Abuja Declaration Emerges as Major Outcome
One of the defining moments of the event was the formal signing of the communiqué for the Abuja Declaration, providing a framework for actionable policy recommendations and commitments involving government institutions, civil society organisations, international partners and indigenous communities.
The declaration is expected to serve as a foundation for continued collaboration towards strengthening indigenous rights, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and community development.
Beyond the policy discussions, the event also featured a colourful food exhibition and cultural showcase featuring traditional indigenous cuisines, native attire, historical artefacts, music and cultural dances.
The exhibition provided participants with an opportunity to experience the diversity of Nigeria’s indigenous heritage while demonstrating the potential of culture and indigenous traditions to contribute to tourism development and community-based economic opportunities.
A New Platform for Indigenous Heritage and Sustainable Development
The Abuja gathering demonstrated the importance of bringing government, international organisations, traditional institutions and grassroots communities together around a common development agenda.
With the Abuja Declaration providing a framework for future action, the event represents an important step towards strengthening national dialogue on indigenous rights while positioning Nigeria’s cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and environmental resources as critical assets for sustainable development.
For Nigeria, protecting indigenous communities and their heritage is increasingly becoming more than a cultural responsibility—it is also an opportunity to strengthen tourism, promote environmental sustainability, empower local communities and build a more inclusive national economy.
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