From Jude Dangwam, Jos

A Non-governmental organization, Restored Heart Foundation has called on the federal government of Nigeria to reintroduce history into the nation’s educational system to enable young Nigerians learn about the country’s past histories, its heritage and understand the events that shape the country as well as where it should be heading to.

This appeal was made during a two-day Young Historian competition (Keeper of Nigerian History event) organized by the Restored Heart Foundation with the support of Career Paddy for the top 10 contestants who made it to the competitions quarter-final stage in Jos the Plateau State capital. The Chief Operating Officer of Restored Heart Foundation, Jerry Mataimaki speaking to Newsmen at the Jos Wildlife Park avenue of the event, noted that the competition is aimed at promoting the study of history among Nigerian students.He noted that it will further encourage the development of critical thinking skills to leverage history learning for national development, fostering academic excellence, and inspiring the next generation of historians in the country.The Consultant for the history treasure hunt, Anne Dirkling reiterated that the competition has helped the young historians solve riddles, and answer questions centred around Nigerian histories from pre-colonial times to pre-independence, post-independence, as well as current happenings in the country.”This competition is helping to understand how knowledgeable the contestants are in the various topics about Nigeria’s history. It defines how good a team player they are, and how well they can work together; it’s a good way to promote national unity.”Some of the participants, Hassanat Adebowale, a 500L Law student from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State expressed joy for being part of the competition which opens a new chapter in her educational pursuit