British Museum, Oxford experts visit NRC Legacy Museum, seek heritage partnership

British Museum, Oxford experts visit NRC Legacy Museum, seek heritage partnership

A delegation of experts from the British Museum and University of Oxford has visited the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) Legacy Museum, opening discussions on potential international collaboration to preserve and revitalise Nigeria’s railway heritage.

The familiarisation tour was led by Paul Bagu, alongside Mrs. Julia Hudson, as the team assessed the museum’s historical assets and conservation needs.

During the visit, the delegation toured key sections of the facility, including the iconic Old Running Shed, home to ageing locomotives and vintage coaches that reflect Nigeria’s rail transport evolution.

The experts expressed strong interest in restoration efforts, stressing the urgency of preserving the artefacts through technical support and global partnerships.

Describing the museum as a critical archive of Nigeria’s industrial past, Bagu noted that it holds “immense cultural and historical value,” adding that collaboration in conservation, restoration, and knowledge exchange would be vital to safeguarding the assets for future generations.

A major highlight of the tour was the historic coach used by Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Nigeria.

The delegation pointed to the shared railway history between Britain and Nigeria as a strong foundation for deeper institutional partnerships.

“The historical links between Britain and Nigeria’s railway development present a unique opportunity to build enduring collaborations that celebrate this shared heritage,” Bagu said.

Drawing parallels from West Africa, he referenced a successful railway heritage initiative in Freetown, where sustained efforts by local enthusiasts have helped revive a once-dormant museum.

He urged similar grassroots commitment in Nigeria to complement institutional support.

President of the Legacy Museum Railway Compound, Mr. Taye Olaniyi, welcomed the delegation, describing the visit as a validation of the museum’s growing relevance.

He also acknowledged the contributions of retired NRC director, Mr. Nate Adediron, to the development of the facility.

“We are honoured to host our distinguished guests. Their visit underscores the importance of global partnerships in advancing our vision of making the NRC Legacy Museum a leading railway heritage centre in Africa,” Olaniyi said.

Providing technical depth to the engagement, Engr. Dr. Quadri A.T., Assistant Director (Mechanical) at NRC, briefed the visitors on the operation and maintenance of both legacy and modern locomotives.

His presentation highlighted ongoing efforts to preserve historical assets while aligning with contemporary rail development standards.

The delegation also explored thematic exhibits covering railway administration, Nigeria’s political evolution, and transitional milestones in national development—elements that reinforce the museum’s educational value.

Commending the initiative, Bagu encouraged greater public engagement, particularly among young Nigerians, to ensure long-term sustainability of heritage preservation efforts.

The visit concluded with the presentation of certificates to key contributors and institutions, followed by a group photograph session.

The engagement marks a significant step toward international collaboration and strengthens efforts to position the NRC Legacy Museum as a premier railway heritage destination in Africa.