The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to uphold global museum standards with a joint inspection of facilities at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Lagos.
Eko Hot News reports that the inspection was led by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, during an official visit to the cultural centre.
Also present were the Director of the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Mr Qudus Onikeku, and key Directors from the Ministry, including the Head of Facility Management, Mr Abimbola Ogunshote, the Head of Legal, Mrs Eunice Ibitola, and the Head of Audit, represented by Mr Sunday Lucas.
The inspection team further included officials from the Ministry of Works, led by the Chief Architect, Miss Mojisola Cole, as well as members of the SI.SA Team, consultants to the J. Randle Centre project, headed by the Principal Architect, Mr Seun Oduwole.
The exercise was designed to comprehensively assess the condition of facilities within the centre, with a focus on identifying areas requiring improvement, enhanced protection, and alignment with internationally accepted museum practices.
Mrs Benson-Awoyinka emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards at the J. Randle Centre, describing it as a flagship cultural institution central to preserving and showcasing Yoruba history, heritage, and identity.
She noted that regular facility assessments are essential to safeguarding cultural assets, improving visitor experience, and positioning Lagos as a leading destination for cultural tourism.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and the consulting team provided technical insights on infrastructure integrity, facility management, and sustainability measures required to protect the centre’s collections and buildings.
The inspection reflects the Lagos State Government’s broader commitment to cultural preservation, infrastructure maintenance, and the promotion of arts and heritage as drivers of tourism and economic development.
The Ministry reaffirmed that recommendations from the inspection would guide future upgrades and management strategies for the J. Randle Centre.
