Nigerian National Museum

The Nigerian National Museum in Lagos is the country’s oldest national museum, established in 1957. It holds archaeological and ethnographic collections that document the cultural history of Nigeria.

Galleries include archaeological material such as ancient terracotta and metalwork, and ethnographic displays covering the cultural practices and material arts of Nigeria’s major peoples. Notable holdings include works from Benin and Nok cultures.

The museum was founded in the mid 20th century to assemble and preserve material heritage from across the territory that became independent Nigeria. Its collections were built through archaeological research, colonial-era acquisitions and later transfers from other institutions.

The museum is located on Lagos Island in the city of Lagos, situated within the central island area that contains other civic and cultural institutions.

• Founding: Established in 1957, it is Nigeria's oldest national museum and a primary repository for archaeological finds and historic artefacts from across the country.

What to See #

• Archaeology and ethnography galleries: Houses archaeological displays covering Nok terracottas and early Nigerian cultures alongside ethnographic exhibits on Yoruba, Igbo and Benin traditions.
• Benin bronzes collection: Contains a collection of Benin bronzes and ritual objects from across Nigeria, presented in dedicated gallery space for historical and artistic study.