HSSI Launches 2-year Project To Preserve FCT Original Inhabitants’ Cultural Rights

A non-governmental organisation, the Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI), has unveiled a two-year project aimed at strengthening the cultural rights of the Original Inhabitants (OIs) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Speaking at a news conference in Abuja yesterday, HSSI project manager, Onoja Arome, said the initiative seeks to preserve the cultural heritage of the OIs while creating economic opportunities.

“This project is about reclaiming the identity of the Original Inhabitants and ensuring their voices are heard. We are training 100 vulnerable women and youth in cultural attire production to boost cultural awareness and provide sustainable livelihoods,”  he said.

Funded by the MacArthur Foundation through the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), the project also advocates for the resettlement and fair compensation of OIs displaced by land acquisitions.

“Many of these people lost their ancestral lands, economic trees, and farms without adequate compensation, leading to high unemployment.

“This initiative seeks to address these injustices while empowering the community,” he said.

He noted that the first phase, implemented in 2021, successfully trained and empowered 200 women and youth, many of whom now run thriving businesses in cultural attire production.

Additionally, 39 awareness jingles were aired in local languages, and advocacy visits were made to government agencies.

“Today, we are proud to continue this mission with CHRICED’s support.  We call on all stakeholders to join us in creating lasting change for the OIs, ensuring future generations thrive in the FCT,” he said.

He said the second phase will last 18 months and focus on skill acquisition, cultural preservation, and intensified advocacy for land rights.