The Igbo World Union has recorded a major stride in its cultural diplomacy drive with the initiation of a partnership arrangement between the Ikiri Agu Palace Museum in Umuahia and a French museum, aimed at deepening heritage preservation and international cooperation.
In pursuit of this objective, His Imperial Majesty, Ambassador Sir Mishak Nnanta KJW, President General of the Igbo World Union, paid a courtesy visit to Mrs Merja Laukia, Director of Collections and Exhibitions, Museum Lyon, France, where he formally expressed the Union’s interest in establishing a structured and mutually beneficial partnership with French museums.
During the engagement, Ambassador Nnanta highlighted the historical depth, cultural richness, and educational significance of the Ikiri Agu Palace Museum, describing it as a critical repository of Igbo civilisation and collective identity. He noted that collaboration with reputable international museums would enhance professional standards, strengthen institutional capacity, and project Igbo heritage onto the global cultural landscape.
Amb. Nnanta, commended the Igbo Union Lyon, France, for its unwavering commitment to the promotion of Igbo culture, unity, and international engagement, describing the union as a strategic pillar in advancing Igbo interests within the European diaspora. He lauded the leadership and members for their consistency in cultural preservation, community cohesion, and constructive collaboration with host institutions, noting that their proactive role continues to strengthen the global relevance and visibility of Igbo heritage while reinforcing meaningful partnerships that benefit both the diaspora and the homeland.
The proposed partnership is expected to foster cultural exchange through joint exhibitions, scholarly research, and professional collaboration, while also supporting capacity building, improved conservation methods, and modern exhibition practices at the Ikiri Agu Palace Museum. It is further anticipated to boost international visibility, attract cultural tourism, and create avenues for academic engagement and sustainable support.
The initiative underscores the Igbo World Union’s sustained commitment to cultural preservation, international partnership, and the strategic positioning of Igbo history and heritage within the global cultural community.
