Nigerian public historian, archivist, curator, and founder of ASIRI Magazine, Oludamola Adebowale, has been admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) in the United Kingdom. The RSA is one of the world's foremost institutions dedicated to social progress, innovation, and cultural advancement.
Recognition of Dedication
The fellowship recognizes Adebowale's over thirteen years of commitment to preserving, documenting, and promoting Nigerian history through archival preservation, public history initiatives, research, exhibitions, publications, and cultural advocacy. Over the years, his work has helped recover and amplify historical narratives that might otherwise have been lost, while making history more accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.
ASIRI Magazine and Its Impact
As founder of ASIRI Magazine, Adebowale has established a respected platform dedicated to preserving Nigeria's historical memory through rare archives, historical documentation, oral histories, and educational storytelling. His work has contributed significantly to ongoing conversations around identity, heritage, and nation-building, demonstrating the role of history as a catalyst for civic engagement and social development.
HerStory of Nigeria Project
Among his most impactful recent initiatives is HerStory of Nigeria, a public history project focused on documenting the lives, achievements, and contributions of women who have shaped Nigeria's social, political, cultural, and economic landscape over the years. Beyond preservation, the project serves as an educational intervention, using these stories to inspire young girls in schools, encourage leadership aspirations, and promote a deeper understanding of women's contributions to national development.
Adebowale's Remarks
Speaking on the recognition, Adebowale described the fellowship as an affirmation of the growing importance of historical preservation in shaping Africa's future. "History is not simply a record of what has happened. It is a developmental resource that helps societies understand themselves, strengthen institutions, and inspire future generations. This recognition reinforces the need to continue to preserve and democratize access to our collective memory," he said.
The fellowship marks an important milestone in Adebowale's career and further strengthens his commitment to advancing public history, cultural preservation, and educational impact across Nigeria and the African continent.
