President of Society of Nigerian Archivists (SNA), Mrs. Yemisi Asaju-Oyebo, has called on the Federal Government to review National Archives Act of 1992 to address challenges in record keeping and information management.
Speaking at a Roundtable Session at Mac Centre, Surulere, Lagos; part of activities to mark International Archives Week: “Archives Are Accessible, Archives for Everyone,” Oyebo noted that efficient record keeping is essential to national development.
She noted that the Act is outdated and insufficient to meet the evolving needs of modern archives and records management.
“I call on the Federal Government to rescue our national archives. In countries like UAE, National Archives is under the presidency. We need professionals, not civil servants randomly posted to archival offices. We have trained manpower,” she said.
According to her, despite the vital role of archives in governance, the sector has suffered neglect.
“National Archives Act, published in 1992, is limited in scope. It needs an overhaul to support record keeping in Nigeria. If you visit our national archives today, you will be disappointed. We need the right tools and infrastructure to function well,” she said.
Oyebo also appealed to families and institutions to preserve historical records for future generations and highlighted the need for collaboration with historians, archaeologists, and librarians.
She encouraged SNA members to be active by paying dues, attend meetings, and participate in training programmes.
“Archive hold evidence of history. Without it, stories are lost. We’ll build our nation if given support and recognition,” she said.
On the future of the profession, Oyebo hoped for the society’s increased visibility and dedication.
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“We’ve been around silently for 40 years, but in the last three, we’ve become more vocal. We’ve launched a YouTube channel and Instagram presence to ensure continued engagement,” she said.
Other speakers emphasised professionalism and awareness.
Dr. Ifeanyiwa Okafor, SNA Welfare Secretary, clarified the difference between archivists and activists, stressing that professional archivists require formal training.
“There’s a widespread misconception about our role. Many think anyone can be an archivist, but without proper training, one cannot handle archives professionally,” she said.
She lamented the lack of awareness and value placed on archival work, especially in organisations that undervalue or misallocate trained staff.
“Without archives, sustainable development and governance are impossible. Records are the foundation of accountability and progress,” she added.
Dr. Kolawole Oseni, an ex-officio member of the SNA, stressed the importance of joining professional associations like SNA for legitimacy and growth. He proposed creating a comprehensive membership database, newsletters, a constitution, and ethics guidelines.
“We need allies; lawyers, engineers, and others who believe in what we do. Our annual conference later this year will be a key moment,” he said.
Dr. Abdulkareem Aliu Bube, SNA Vice President and lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, noted that misconceptions about archivists exist across both northern and southern Nigeria.
“Many still can’t pronounce ‘archivist,’ let alone understand its significance. We must change this perception,” he said.
He highlighted the Center for Historical Documentation and Research at ABU as a model of effective archival work, housing archives, a museum, and a library.
“Development cannot occur without accurate information. Archives are primary sources, and every government office should be mandated to have a professional archivist,” he added.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Oyebo emphasised that while government support is crucial, professionals must also step up.
“We must be certified, trained, and able to communicate our value. I built archives for Shell and First Bank, and they listened because I knew what I was doing,” she said.
She advocated for digital transformation and artificial intelligence integration in archival systems.
“Archives can and should be both physical and digital. If we don’t evolve, we risk irrelevance,” she concluded.
Also speaking, Mr. Samson Izekhome Dalumo emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to align with global best practices in archival work and give archivists the recognition they deserve.