Preserving the Past: A Critical Study of Archival Practice and Historical Research in Nigeria

Abstract

The preservation of archives in Nigeria remains a complex and often neglected aspect of historical inquiry. Rooted in colonial legacies and shaped by post-independence aspirations, Nigeria’s archival infrastructure has played a vital role in the documentation of the nation's past. However, the condition of archival repositories today reflects decades of underfunding, poor maintenance, and administrative lapses. These challenges have hindered access to critical primary sources, especially for historians attempting to reconstruct colonial narratives. This paper examines the emergence and evolution of archival practice in Nigeria, with emphasis National Archives Ibadan (NAI). Methodologically, this study draws on existing literature and qualitative insights from interviews with administrative staff of the National Archives Ibadan, as well as historians and researchers who regularly use the archives. It also explores how Nigerian historians have navigated incomplete archives, linguistic diversity, and oral traditions to build a more inclusive historiography. The relevance of this paper lies in its call for renewed attention to archival preservation as a foundation for historical accuracy, cultural continuity, and national identity.