Travel/Tourism
Google Partners Others to Digitally Preserve Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A move has been taken to digitally preserve the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove in Osun State. A tech giant, Google Arts & Culture, has collaborated with some organisations to put the content of the shrine in a digital format.
The other organisations partnering with Google are the Adunni Olorisha Trust and CyArk.
In a statement, it was disclosed that the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove project could be explored via goo.gle/osun-osogbo.
Highlights include a 75ha Street View of the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, including the Busanyin Shrine before it was affected by the flood and 3D models of four of the site’s dynamic shrines.
The collection allows people to view 900 high-resolution photographs of the site, contemporary and historical artworks and sculptures, artists and spiritual leaders. It also tells 28 stories about art, community and spirituality at the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove and the effect of climate change at the site and includes three audio interviews, including one with popular artist Jimoh Buraimoh about Susanne Wenger.
This first and largest digital library showcasing the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove is part of Google Arts and Culture’s wider Heritage on the Edge project.
The project seeks to support site managers in digitally documenting heritage sites at risk due to climate change, using the imagery captured to further support community maintenance and conservation.
It allows visitors to watch 27 video interviews and see aerial views and 3D views of the site, while annotated 3D tours of the Busanyin and Iya Moopo shrines showcase the legacy of art and spirituality at the sacred grove.
“Google Arts & Culture’s mission is to preserve and promote the world’s art and culture online, allowing anyone, anywhere in the world to share in it.
“We are grateful that through partnerships, we are now able to preserve one of the most recognised, culturally rich Yoruba heritage sites, known for active traditional worship and contemporary art movements,” says Chance Coughenour, Program Manager and Digital Archaeologist, Google Arts & Culture.
“Through the use of state-of-the-art technologies, site managers will be able to monitor and mitigate the effects of the changing climate and more broadly provide resources to support growing the capacity for the preservation of heritage sites,” added Coughenour.
Located on the forested banks of the Osun river in the city of Osogbo, in Osun State, the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is several centuries old and among the last sacred groves of their kind which joined the edges of most Yoruba cities before the mass shift from rural to urban areas.
On the site, Yoruba deities are embodied in shapely, sculpted shrines where creativity and spirituality come to life. Recently, the Grove has been in danger of destruction due to flooding, heavy rain and climate change. The Busanyin Shrine was damaged in floods shortly after being digitally captured.
“The Yoruba community is one of the largest in Nigeria, and the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove is truly a unique and special place that embodies the essence of the Yoruba culture and heritage.
“We are excited about the digital preservation of the site and the partnership with Google Arts & Culture. It offers a noteworthy body of work that portrays the admirable culture of the Yoruba people to the world,” says Olufemi A. Akinsanya Akinsanya, Chair, Save Our Art! Save Our Heritage! Campaign.
“CyArk’s work in Osogbo has been a true collaboration between Nigerian government officials, local NGOs, the community of Osogbo, and His Royal Highness Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun Larooye II, who are all working together to share the stories of Osogbo with a wider audience,” says Kacey Hadick, Director of Programs and Development, CyArk.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, said, “I am truly delighted that, for the first time ever, the Osun Osogbo Grove has been brought online, thanks to Google Arts and Culture, which has partnered with CyArk and the Adunni Olorisa Trust/Osun Foundation to digitise the shrine and its surroundings, thus protecting both for posterity.”
“I said during the visit to the Grove in 2019 that it was important to refocus national and global attention on this world heritage site, and I am glad we achieved our purpose, as can be attested to by this project digitising the shrine and its surroundings. I wish to most sincerely commend all the partners for this monumental work,” he added.
Through past projects like Taste of Nigeria and Eko for Show, Google Arts and Culture has helped people across the world experience Nigeria’s heritage and history. The launch of the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove project allows new audiences locally and internationally an opportunity to experience its past, present and future, reinforcing Google’s commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Google Arts & Culture is available free to everyone on the web or via the Arts & Culture App on iOS and Android. Google Arts & Culture is a new way to experience art, history, culture, and world wonders from over 1000 organisations worldwide.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
A deal has been sealed between the Enugu State government and the Landmark Group for the transformation of the Nike Lake Resort Hotel.
The company, owned by serial investor, Mr Paul Onwuanibe, will revamp the facility and operate for 35 years on lease.
The Governor of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mbah, expressed optimism that Landmark Group would use the hotel to boost tourism sector of the state.
He explained that his administration decided to work with Mr Onwuanibe’s organisation as part of his commitment to transforming Enugu into a global destination for investment and tourism, noting that Nike Lake Resort remains a key government asset that need efficient management to flourish.
“Nike Lake Resort is not just a hotel; it is a symbol of Enugu’s hospitality and tourism potential.
“This partnership reflects our vision to create an environment that fosters investment, job creation, and economic growth,” Mr Mbah remarked.
The Governor said Nike Lake Resort Hotel could position Enugu as a preferred destination for both domestic and international visitors while boosting the state’s economic development.
On his part, Mr Onwuanibe expressed gratitude for the opportunity to manage the iconic hotel and assured the government of delivering world-class services.
He also emphasized the potential of the hotel to serve as a major tourism hub, creating employment opportunities for the youth and revitalizing Enugu’s tourism sector.
While signing the deal with the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mrs Adaora Chukwu, the Landmark Group boss said the initiative should boost the local economy and attract approximately 3 million visitors annually.
Recall that in 2024, the popular beach resort operated by Landmark Group in Lagos was demolished by the federal government to make way for the controversial Lagos to Calabar Coastal Road.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
To strengthen African trade and diaspora connections, one of the leading airlines in Nigeria, Air Peace, partnered with the Africa Diaspora Investment Network Alliance (ADINA) for its summit held in Ghana on December 27, 2024.
The airline operator said it backed the event to solidify its commitment to fostering stronger ties between Africa and its global diaspora.
The programme facilitated conversations around trade, investment, and economic empowerment, positioning the diaspora as a significant force for Africa’s economic transformation.
At the summit held at the Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel in Accra, the Head of Sales and Business Development at Air Peace, Mr Davids Odeyemi, emphasized the airline’s mission to connect Africa and its diaspora.
He highlighted Air Peace’s extensive network, which offers seamless travel solutions for diasporans seeking to reconnect with their roots, explore their heritage, and invest in Africa’s burgeoning markets.
Mr Odeyemi also reaffirmed the airline’s role as a driver of intra-African trade, enhancing connectivity to enable the movement of goods, services, and people, thereby creating jobs and fostering economic growth.
Air Peace’s partnership with the ADINA Summit also aligns with its broader commitment to promoting tourism and showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage. The airline’s continuous investment in a modern fleet underscores its determination to provide a world-class travel experience, reinforcing its position as a catalyst for African development.
The programme underscored the critical role of diaspora remittances in bolstering local economies, with discussions focusing on the potential of the diaspora to surpass traditional foreign direct investments.
Air Peace, through this partnership, gained access to a high-level network of African and diaspora leaders, creating opportunities to connect with talent, clients, and collaborators while amplifying its branding and marketing initiatives.
By actively participating in the ADINA Summit 2024, Air Peace reaffirmed its dedication to shaping the continent’s future. This partnership exemplifies the airline’s leadership in African aviation and its unwavering commitment to driving progress across the continent. Together with ADINA, Air Peace is helping to unlock Africa’s economic potential and strengthen its global connections.
By Dipo Olowookere
The Enugu Christmas Village has been commissioned by the Minister of Arts, Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Ms Hanatu Musawa; and the Governor of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mba.
This development officially kicked off the holiday season in the state, giving residents and others from across Nigeria and outside the opportunity to relax in an atmosphere of love, positioning Enugu as a key destination for cultural and holiday tourism.
Facilitated by Omu Resort, a leading tourism promoter in Africa, the Enugu Christmas Village is set to become the heartbeat of holiday celebrations in the state.
The company has already organised a 25-day festival at the village designed to attract residents, visitors, and dignitaries from across the region.
With its vibrant atmosphere and festive attractions, the Enugu Christmas Village boasts an array of attractions such as a waterpark, roller skating, archery, amusement rides, and much more.
At its centre is a breathtaking display of 500,000 Christmas lights, illuminating the village in a magical glow that promises to captivate visitors of all ages.
The festival goes beyond the lights and rides, offering a rich tapestry of events that celebrate the state’s cultural heritage.
Highlights include Afrobeat Concert, Praise Night, Highlife Concert Street Carnival, Cultural Parade and a Grand Fireworks Show.
One of the most anticipated moments is the Santa Street Storm, where over 100 Santa Claus figures riding tricycles will parade through the streets, distributing gifts to orphanages and the less privileged, spreading joy and goodwill.
Running from December 7 to December 31, 2024, the Enugu Christmas Festival is more than just a celebration of the holiday season. It underscores the state’s cultural vibrancy and its potential as a leading tourist destination.
The festival offers a unique opportunity for families and friends to come together, celebrate, and unwind in a festive atmosphere. It is also expected to fosters unity and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Enugu State, while promoting arts, tourism, and community well-being.
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