US grants $400,000 to preserve ancient Yoruba Earthworks in Nigeria

Abdullateef Fowewe

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has awarded a $400,000 grant to conserve the late 14th-century Sungbo Eredo Earthworks, a monumental site linked to the Yoruba Ijebu Kingdom.

Announced via X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, the funding marks

“#ThisWeekinUSNigeriaHistory,” highlighting key milestones in bilateral ties.

“The U.S. Mission in Nigeria awarded a grant of $400,000 for the conservation of the late 14th century Sungbo Eredo Earthworks of the Yoruba Ijebu Kingdom in Nigeria,” the post stated.

This is the largest Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) grant ever given in Nigeria and the second-largest in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Sungbo Eredo, a vast network of ancient ditches and ramparts stretching over 100 miles, is one of Africa’s most impressive pre-colonial engineering feats, often compared to the Great Wall of Benin.

The grant will support vital restoration efforts to protect the site from erosion and urban encroachment, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.