NIGERIA: Beneath the dust and yellowing pages of Nigerian newspapers lies a treasure trove of history, waiting to be rediscovered.
A dedicated non-profit is on a mission to do just that, embarking on an ambitious project to digitize the nation’s newspapers from 1960, the year of independence, to the present day.
This initiative, spearheaded by the non-profit Archivi.ng, aims to create a publicly accessible online archive of historical newspapers. Volunteers meticulously scan and upload newspapers, making them searchable and accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
The project doesn’t just preserve printed words; it breathes life into the past. Through digitized newspapers, students, researchers, and the general public can access firsthand accounts of major events, cultural shifts, and everyday life across decades. These digital pages paint a vibrant picture of Nigeria’s journey, offering invaluable insights into its social, political, and economic evolution.
However, the task is monumental. Millions of pages need scanning, requiring tireless work and significant resources. This is where the public comes in. Archivi.ng relies on volunteers and donations to fuel its mission.
By supporting this endeavor, individuals can become active participants in safeguarding Nigeria’s rich heritage for future generations.
With each digitized page, a piece of the past is rescued from oblivion. Archivi.ng’s dedication to preserving history through the lens of newspapers serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding the past to shape a brighter future.
