In a bid to document and preserve historical artifacts in the Kwali community, the hometown of the renowned potter Dr Ladi Kwali, the Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, has announced a project to enhance and promote tourism in the area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the traditional ruler stated that the project includes factual accounts of potential tourist sites, especially those linked to the renowned potter Dr. Ladi Kwali. Nizassan revealed that various tourist attractions within the community had already been identified and profiled, including the restored grave site of Kwali, which is expected to boost the community’s tourism potential.
Nizassan, one of the grandsons of Dr. Ladi Kwali, believes that the Kwali community “holds the greatest tourism potential in the FCT,” being the home of Dr. Ladi Kwali. According to Nizassan, Kwali’s gravesite has been developed, and all potential tourist sites have been documented. “We are exploring ways to develop them so that the community can benefit from the tourism economy,” Nizassan stated.
Discussions had already begun with the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Social Development Secretariat and the Director of Tourism on how to harness the area’s tourism potential, and the services of archaeologists have been engaged to date some of the historical remains of artifacts, the NAN reports.
“This is to enrich our history as a people and also to be able to have factual stories about these tourist sites. This is the best way to profile story sites if true stories are behind them, not myths. We want to tell true stories about ourselves and ensure the dates are appropriate and built from proper facts.”
The Etsu of Kwali also added that the move was also made to alter the false and misinterpretation of the history of the Kwali community, as earlier presumed by some writers and historians. Nizassan believes that the presentation of factual accounts directly from the Indigenous people of the community is a more authentic representation of the community’s history, thereby attracting visitors to the unique settlement.
“We are working to discard inaccurate narratives and share our true stories.” “We believe that once these stories are shared, people will become curious to learn more about us and will visit our community.”
Nizassan also touched on collaboration with private investors to develop resorts and hotels in the community. This would enable visitors and tourists to tap the tranquility of the environment as an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nizassan added that tourism would offer visitors and tourists a firsthand opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of the community.
The Kwali community is significant to Nigeria’s arts and crafts, particularly through the legacy of Ladi Kwali, the renowned potter who elevated Nigerian pottery to international recognition. Her work blended traditional Gwari techniques with modern methods, creating a unique style now synonymous with Nigerian ceramics. The community’s pottery tradition dates back generations and inspires contemporary artists and artisans.
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FAQs
- What is the main goal of the artefacts preservation project in Kwali?
The main goal is to preserve cultural artefacts, such as Dr. Ladi Kwali’s pottery, to enhance tourism and promote cultural heritage.
- What challenges does the preservation project face?
Challenges include funding constraints, infrastructure issues, and the need for community involvement and government support.
- How can digital technologies enhance the project?
Digital technologies can improve accessibility, create virtual tours, and enhance the preservation and promotion of cultural artefacts, attracting a broader audience.
