Cultural Heritage Digitization in West Africa: A Nigerian Perspective on Preservation Strategies

Cultural heritage preservation in West Africa is increasingly focusing on digital methods to ensure long-term accessibility and authenticity of cultural artifacts. Qualitative research methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews and document analysis of existing preservation projects in Nigeria. The study's sample included representatives from cultural institutions, academic researchers, and local communities. The findings indicate that a significant proportion (70%) of respondents prioritise community engagement as the most effective strategy for ensuring authenticity and accessibility of digitized heritage content. This research underscores the importance of involving local communities in preservation efforts to maintain cultural integrity and relevance in digital formats. Recommendations include integrating community participation into digitization plans, fostering collaboration between cultural institutions and academic researchers, and utilising digital platforms that support intergenerational sharing of knowledge.