Our Projects

At the Foundation for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage in Nigeria (FOPCHEN), we are deeply committed to preserving and revitalizing Nigeria’s rich cultural history through impactful projects that safeguard heritage, empower communities, and promote sustainable development. From the restoration of historical landmarks to documenting cultural practices, our projects are diverse but united by the common goal of ensuring Nigeria’s heritage thrives for future generations.

Below are some of our key projects

 

1. Premier Building Restoration – Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar

Project Overview: The Premier Building at Hope Waddell Training Institution in Calabar is an iconic wooden structure that has played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s educational history for over a century. FOPCHEN is leading the restoration of this historic building, bringing it back to life to preserve its legacy for future generations. The restoration project will ensure that this landmark continues to serve as a beacon of cultural and educational pride for the people of Nigeria.

  • Phase 1: Initial structural restoration of the building.
  • Phase 2: Ongoing finishing works and community engagement programs.
  • Impact: Restoration of a national educational monument and the revival of its historical significance.

 

Learn More About the Premier Building Restoration

2. Kainji Dam Resettlement Scheme Documentation

Project Overview: The construction of Kainji Dam in Niger State led to the resettlement of many communities, causing the loss of cultural heritage and disruption to local livelihoods. FOPCHEN is documenting the lost heritage of these displaced communities, capturing their memories and the new cultural landscape that has emerged since the relocation.

  • Documentation Process: Gathering oral histories, archiving personal stories, and documenting the architectural styles of the new settlements.
  • Cultural Impact: Preserving the memories and traditions of communities impacted by development.
  • Digital Archive: Creating a digital repository for researchers and future generations.

Learn More About Our Work in Kainji

3. Bocco House Documentation – Calabar

Project Overview: Bocco House is a historical building in Calabar that reflects a unique architectural style from Nigeria’s past. FOPCHEN is undertaking a comprehensive documentation of this site to ensure its preservation and accessibility for future generations. This project includes detailed research on the building’s history, architectural design, and cultural significance to the Calabar region.

  • Objective: Safeguarding cultural knowledge through detailed documentation.
  • Preservation: Archiving materials and creating digital records for educational purposes.

Learn More About Bocco House Documentation

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4. Solar Training Program for Youth

Project Overview: In line with our commitment to sustainable development, FOPCHEN is providing specialized training for Nigerian youth in solar PV system installation. This program not only addresses the growing need for renewable energy in Nigeria but also empowers young people with practical skills that promote both economic and environmental sustainability.

  • Training Focus: Solar panel installation, system maintenance, and sustainable energy management.
  • Youth Empowerment: Providing employment opportunities and promoting clean energy solutions.
  • Impact: Developing a generation of skilled technicians to lead Nigeria’s renewable energy future.

Learn More About Our Youth Solar Program

5. Siyanda Academy

Project Overview: The Siyanda Academy is a transformative educational program designed to empower young Africans with knowledge of their rich cultural heritage. Our six-week summer and winter programs, based in Abuja, immerse students aged 18 to 24 in a rigorous exploration of decolonized African history, languages, literature, and traditions. This program shapes future cultural custodians and advocates for heritage preservation.

  • Curriculum Highlights: Decolonized African History, African Literature, Languages, and Spirituality.
  • Community Engagement: Fostering a strong connection to African roots and promoting cultural pride.
  • Impact: Developing leaders who will champion cultural heritage preservation in their communities.

Learn More About Siyanda Academy

6. Heritage Impact Assessments and Consultancy Services

Project Overview: FOPCHEN offers consultancy services that assess the impact of development projects on Nigeria’s cultural heritage. Our team of experts provides guidance on protecting heritage sites, conducting heritage impact assessments, and preparing dossiers for World Heritage nominations. We collaborate with local and international stakeholders to ensure sustainable heritage management.

  • Services Include: Heritage Impact Assessments, World Heritage Dossier Preparation, and Site Interpretation.
  • Capacity Building: Training local heritage professionals and institutions in sustainable management practices.
  • Consultancy Work: Supporting both local communities and government agencies in heritage conservation.

Learn More About Our Consultancy Services

7. Community Capacity-Building Projects

Project Overview: We work closely with communities across Nigeria to strengthen their capacity to manage, preserve, and promote their cultural heritage. Through workshops, training sessions, and collaborative projects, FOPCHEN empowers local communities to take ownership of their heritage and sustain it for future generations.

  • Key Focus Areas: Heritage Management, Documentation, and Restoration Techniques.
  • Community-Led Projects: Partnering with local leaders to develop sustainable heritage initiatives.
  • Outcome: Increased community engagement and preservation of local traditions.

Learn More About Our Community Projects

 

8. African Cultural Heritage Documentation Project

Project Overview: In partnership with students and academic institutions, FOPCHEN has initiated a groundbreaking project to document Nigeria's cultural heritage sites. This initiative not only preserves important cultural landmarks but also provides students with hands-on experience in heritage management, fostering the next generation of cultural preservationists. Our work involves detailed documentation, digital archiving, and community engagement, ensuring that these cultural assets are accessible for future research and education.

  • Partnerships: Collaboration with universities and students to create comprehensive archives.
  • Documentation Focus: Nigerian heritage sites, including historical monuments, sacred landscapes, and cultural landmarks.
  • Digital Archive: All collected data is hosted on archivingafrica.com, making these invaluable resources available for educational and research purposes worldwide.
  • Impact: Engaging youth in cultural preservation and creating a lasting digital record of Nigeria’s heritage.

Learn More About Our Heritage Documentation Project

Future Projects

We are continually expanding our work to include projects that address the intersections of cultural heritage and sustainable development. Upcoming projects will focus on engaging youth with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly around environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and cultural preservation. These initiatives will provide pathways for Nigerian youth to become leaders in their communities and active participants in shaping a sustainable future.