By Adenike Lawal
The 2025 Tuk Ham (Nok), Festival in Southern Kaduna will showcase a remarkable collection of over 200 original artworks from the ancient Nok civilization, according to the Paramount Ruler of Jaba Chiefdom, Dr. Danladi Gyet Maude, Kpop Ham.
Dr. Maude, speaking after the signing of the Nok cultural preservation project, revealed that invitations had been extended to key figures, including the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, and the Director General of the National Museum Commission.
The festival aims to highlight the rich heritage of the Ham people, custodians of the Nok civilization, and will feature traditional music, dance, and live displays of Nok artifacts.
The preservation project, funded by the U.S. government, seeks to protect the iconic Nok terracotta sculptures, some of West Africa’s oldest and most significant artifacts.
The project includes the digital documentation of Nok artworks, museum education workshops, and enhanced security measures.
Both the Nigerian and U.S. governments are committed to safeguarding these invaluable cultural treasures for future generations.
The event is expected to attract dignitaries, scholars, and visitors, further cementing the festival’s role in cultural preservation and tourism.