Augustine University is set to host a landmark event that will shed new light on one of Africa’s most significant archaeological wonders. The Sungbo’s-Eredo LiDAR Presentation Workshop, scheduled for August 5th and 6th, 2024, will unveil the findings from the first-ever archaeological LiDAR survey conducted on the historic Sungbo’s-Eredo monument.
Organized in partnership with the Ife Sungbo Archaeological Team, the workshop aims to present and hand over the LiDAR survey data to the relevant authorities, marking a crucial milestone in the conservation and promotion efforts of this ancient structure.
“This is a momentous occasion, as the Sungbo’s-Eredo monument has long been shrouded in mystery, with its true scale and significance not fully understood,” said Professor Adisa Ogunfolakan from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. “The LiDAR survey has provided unprecedented insights, and we’re excited to share these findings with the public.”
The workshop follows a previous successful event held in 2021, which focused on research into the preservation of Sungbo’s-Eredo. Building on that foundation, the upcoming event will delve deeper into the implications of the LiDAR survey, offering new perspectives on the monument’s archaeological significance and preservation strategies.
Distinguished guests expected to attend include traditional rulers, government officials, representatives from international organizations, and leading researchers in the field of archaeology.
Significantly, the LiDAR research was fully funded by the US Mission in Nigeria through the Ambassador Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), underscoring the global importance of this landmark project.
“The Sungbo’s-Eredo monument is a testament to the ingenuity and rich cultural heritage of Nigeria,” said Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture. “This workshop represents a crucial step in unlocking the secrets of this remarkable site and ensuring its preservation for generations to come.”
With the unveiling of the LiDAR survey results, the Sungbo’s-Eredo LiDAR Presentation Workshop promises to be a transformative event, opening a new chapter in the understanding and appreciation of this historic African landmark.