By Fr. Alfred-Matthew Nworie

A representative of the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ogun state who is also the Director of the Ogun state Cultural Centre Gallery, Abeokuta, Mr. Emmanuel Bongos-Ikwue visited the Museum today Wednesday 8th April 2026. Some members of the Museum Committee, Dr. (Oluko) Cornelius Onanuga, Rev. Fr. Alfred-Matthew Nworie, Mr. Patcheco Konzi and Mr. Olaiya received him on behalf of the Bishop/Visioner, Most Rev. Dr. Francis Obafemi Adesina.

The visit from the ministry was to access the facilities of the Catholic Museum of Arts and History (CAMAH) in the JDPC Compound in view of registration and recognition by the government.

Before the tour of the Museum facilities, Mr. Emmanuel Bongos-Ikwue had interractions with the Committee members present. He hinted that cultural artefacts tell the story of the people they represent. Therefore, the government sees to it that they are properly selected and preserved to serve their purpose. He said the benefits in getting government certification include but not limited to; recognition and listing by the government as centres for cultural history and knowledge, traffic generation to the Museum, partnership with the government, consultancy and training.

Taken through a tour of the Museum facilities, he expressed satisfaction in the quality of artefacts as he urged the Committee members to intensify efforts to get more artefacts of value. He encouraged that the Committee look beyond “denominational artefacts.” He hinted that the Museum is not only a large one but a standard museum around that could attract His Excellency and other State visitors.

He promised to relate his findings with the Honourable Commissioner who would be visiting next. He requested that the details and documents of the Visioner, Director, Curators and other staffers be prepared as they would be needing them for registration after their next visit.