U.S. Gives $125,000 Grant to Preserve Ancient Lejja Iron-Smelting Site in Enugu

The U.S. has awarded a $125,000 grant to Centre for Memories, Enugu, to preserve and digitally document the ancient Lejja Iron-Smelting Site dating back to 2,000 BC.U.S. Consul General Brandon Hudspeth presented the grant in Lagos to Enugu Deputy Governor Ifeanyi Ossai, representing Gov. Peter Mbah. Hudspeth said the funds will protect the site from environmental threats using modern documentation. Talks are ongoing to extend the program for 5 more years.

Ossai said Enugu will send a bill to the Assembly to legally protect Lejja, then seek federal recognition as a national monument.

The Lejja site in Nsukka highlights Nigeria’s ancient iron-working heritage and will boost tourism and education.