Dr Richard Kuba

Richard Elesho

History has been described as an important component of gaining the future. Therefore, its study is recommended for a holistic understanding and development of society.

German Archaeologist Dr Richard Kuba made the recommendation on the sidelines of the 13th public lecture of the Federal University, Lokoja, which he delivered in the institution’s Permanent Site on Thursday.

In the incisive and thought-provoking presentation titled ‘The Middle Niger: A historic trade hub and cultural crossroads,’ the respected anthropologist shed light on the economic potential of the middle Niger, noting that the area once had a civilisation that could not be found anywhere else in the world.

When he entertained questions, Kuba reiterated his call on the government at all levels, corporate bodies, and individuals not to neglect the study of history and the humanities in their quest for scientific advancement and better living conditions.

“We should know where and how everything started and where we went wrong before we can gain access to the future. Where are we coming from, and what have the ancestors done about certain things?

“History is not a futile pastime, as many people think. It is an important thing. We need to talk about the past and study it to help us understand where the future is taking us. It’s also a matter of ordering our priority. It is not always about the latest technology or the latest smartphones that bring goods into our lives.

Earlier, Vice-Chancellor FUL, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, commented on the importance of the lecture and thanked the guest lecturer for accepting the challenge. He also called attention to the significance of Lokoja in view of the topic of the lecture.

“Today’s topic, ‘The Middle Niger: A Historic Trade Hub and Cultural Crossroads,’ is both timely and significant. Lokoja, where our university is strategically located, has long been at the heart of commercial, cultural, and historical exchanges along the Middle Niger. From pre-colonial times, it served as a major trade route, connecting diverse civilisations and fostering economic growth. Its role as a confluence of cultures has shaped its identity, making it a rich research field for scholars in history, anthropology, and socioeconomic studies.

“As scholars, this lecture presents an opportunity for us to deepen our research and engagement with Lokoja’s historical and economic significance. How can we leverage its rich past to advance knowledge, attract tourism, and contribute to policy-making? Historians, geographers, and economists can explore new dimensions of trade and cultural interactions. Social scientists can analyse its impact on present-day development. Additionally, engineers and environmentalists can study the sustainability of its riverine economy. By leveraging interdisciplinary research, we can uncover new insights that contribute to preserving and enhancing the legacy of the Middle Niger.”

A senior academic of the institution, Prof. Atawodi, in his contribution, urged the government to make funds available for academic research.

Kuba and his wife, a Nigerian, were dressed in traditional Nigerian attires to close the lecture, which was attended by students, lecturers, and guests from within and outside Kogi State.