The Lagos State Government has joined forces with the Wikimedia User Group Nigeria to launch the Wiki Imagine Lagos initiative, a groundbreaking project aimed at digitally preserving Lagos’ rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks while promoting sustainable tourism.
The initiative, which includes a webinar and writing contest, seeks to enhance Lagos’ global visibility through Wikipedia, the world’s most-referenced encyclopedia.
Welcoming participants to the launch, Dr. Isaac Olatunde, Secretary to Wikimedia Nigeria’s Board of Trustees, reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to documenting Lagos’ vibrant history and culture.
The project involves photo and content submission contests, thematic edit-a-thons to improve Wikipedia articles on Lagos, and the installation of plaques with embedded Wikipedia URLs at key tourist attractions.
In a notable first for Africa, the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has appointed a Wikipedia-In-Residence, tasked with identifying heritage gaps on Wikipedia. A recent assessment revealed that over 70% of Lagos’ 163 heritage resources are missing from the platform.
A webinar kickstarted the initiative, engaging key stakeholders to strategise on enriching Wikipedia’s Lagos-related content. A writing contest was also launched to encourage Nigerian journalists to spotlight underrepresented Lagos heritage sites, which will be referenced in Wikipedia articles.
The contest offers cash prizes of ₦500,000, ₦300,000, and ₦200,000 alongside digital certificates for outstanding entries. Winning articles will be featured during edit-a-thons, increasing global visibility for Lagos’ cultural treasures.
This project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11, which emphasises creating inclusive, safe, and sustainable cities by showcasing Lagos’ heritage and economic vibrancy to the world.
The webinar featured a panel discussion with contributions from Mrs. Adetoke Benson Awosika, Honourable Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture; Olusola Olaniyan, Chairperson, Wikimedia Nigeria Foundation Inc.; Pelu Awofeso, CNN/Multichoice African Journalist Award winner; Okorie Uguru, Publisher, Africa Travel Herald, and former PRO of FTAN; and Mevin Iteghete, Information Technologist
The panellists highlighted the initiative’s potential to position Lagos State as a global cultural and tourism hub, bridging the gap between technology, heritage, and development.
Ambassador Olusola Olaniyan, Chairperson of Wikimedia Nigeria, hailed the collaboration as a landmark achievement in safeguarding Lagos’ heritage and amplifying its global presence.
