Centres of Ancient Civilization in Nigeria

Lesson Notes: Centres of Ancient Civilization in Nigeria

Introduction: Nigeria is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and its ancient civilizations have played a significant role in shaping the nation's history. In this lesson, we will explore the centres of ancient civilization in Nigeria, the importance of museums, and the significance of wildlife parks, zoos, botanical gardens, statues, and monuments to Nigeria's development.

1. Centres of Ancient Civilization in Nigeria: The following are some of the notable centres of ancient civilization in Nigeria:

• Nok: Located in Kaduna State, Nok is known for its ancient terracotta figurines, which date back to around 1000 BC.
• Igbo Ukwu: Situated in Anambra State, Igbo Ukwu is famous for its bronze artifacts, which were discovered in the 1930s.
• Benin: Located in Edo State, Benin is known for its ancient kingdom, which dates back to the 13th century.
• Ile-Ife: Situated in Osun State, Ile-Ife is an ancient city that is considered the cradle of Yoruba civilization.

These centres of ancient civilization have contributed significantly to Nigeria's cultural heritage and have provided valuable insights into the country's history.

2. Importance of Museum to Historical Development of Nigeria: Museums play a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Nigeria's cultural heritage. Some of the importance of museums include:

• Preservation of artifacts: Museums help to preserve artifacts and relics from ancient civilizations, which would otherwise be lost or destroyed.
• Education and research: Museums provide a platform for education and research, allowing people to learn about Nigeria's history and culture.
• Tourism: Museums attract tourists, which can generate revenue and create jobs.
• National identity: Museums help to promote national identity and pride, by showcasing Nigeria's rich cultural heritage.

3. Significance of Wildlife Park, Zoo, Botanical Gardens, Statues, and Monuments: These attractions are significant to Nigeria's development in several ways:

• Wildlife Park and Zoo: They help to conserve and protect Nigeria's wildlife, while also providing entertainment and education for visitors.
• Botanical Gardens: They help to conserve and showcase Nigeria's plant species, while also providing a peaceful environment for recreation and relaxation.
• Statues and Monuments: They serve as reminders of Nigeria's history and cultural heritage, while also providing a sense of national pride and identity.

In conclusion, the centres of ancient civilization in Nigeria, museums, wildlife parks, zoos, botanical gardens, statues, and monuments are all significant to Nigeria's development. They provide valuable insights into the country's history, promote national identity and pride, and contribute to education, research, and tourism.

Class Discussion:

• What are some of the notable centres of ancient civilization in Nigeria?
• How do museums contribute to Nigeria's historical development?
• What is the significance of wildlife parks, zoos, botanical gardens, statues, and monuments to Nigeria's development?

Assignment:

• Research and write a short essay on one of the centres of ancient civilization in Nigeria.
• Visit a museum or a wildlife park/zoo and write a report on your experience.

Exam Questions:

• Identify and describe two centres of ancient civilization in Nigeria.
• Explain the importance of museums to Nigeria's historical development.
• Discuss the significance of wildlife parks, zoos, botanical gardens, statues, and monuments to Nigeria's development.