The Lagos State Government, in partnership with the Wikimedia User Group Nigeria, has launched the Wiki Imagine Lagos initiative, aimed at digitally preserving the state’s cultural heritage, tourist attractions, and historical sites. The initiative promotes sustainable tourism development through various activities, including contests, webinars, and edit-a-thons.
Dr. Isaac Olatunde’s Welcome Address
Dr. Isaac Olatunde, Secretary to the Wikimedia Nigeria Board of Trustees, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing Wikimedia Nigeria’s commitment to documenting Lagos’ culture and history.
Key Features of the Initiative
The project includes photo and content submission contests, thematic edit-a-thons to improve Lagos-related Wikipedia articles, and the installation of customized plaques at tourist sites with embedded Wikipedia links.
A major highlight is the appointment of a Wikipedia-In-Residence at the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture the first of its kind in Africa.
Wikipedia Needs Assessment
A Needs Assessment revealed that over 70% of Lagos’ 163 heritage sites are not documented on Wikipedia. The initiative aims to leverage the global reach of Wikipedia to fill this gap.
Writing Contest and Webinar
To kick off the project, a webinar was held to engage stakeholders, alongside the launch of a writing contest for Nigerian journalists to create stories on overlooked heritage sites. Cash prizes totaling ₦1 million are up for grabs, and selected articles will be added to Wikipedia.
Panel Discussion on Cultural and Tourism Promotion
The webinar featured a panel discussion moderated by Airat Abdul Rahmon, Broadcast Journalist at Voice of Nigeria. Panellists included key figures such as Mrs. Adetoke Benson Awosika, Honourable Commissioner for Lagos State Tourism, Arts, and Culture, and Pelu Awofeso, CNN/Multichoice African Journalist Awardee, who highlighted the initiative’s potential to position Lagos as a global cultural and tourism hub.
Wikimedia Nigeria’s Commitment
Ambassador Olusola Olaniyan, Chairman of Wikimedia Nigeria, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, describing it as a significant step in bridging culture, technology, and development. The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11, aiming to create inclusive, sustainable urban environments while promoting Lagos’ cultural heritage to the world.
