About Us

The Institute for Historical Studies is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study of history and the dissemination of historical knowledge. We offer a variety of programs and services to the public, including lectures, workshops, and conferences. Our goal is to promote a greater understanding of the past and its relevance to the present.

Our mission is to foster a community of scholars and students who are committed to the pursuit of historical knowledge. We believe that history is an essential part of a well-rounded education and that it has the power to enrich our lives and deepen our understanding of the world around us.

The Institute for Historical Studies, Biographical Research, Documentation, and Legacy (IHS-BiRD & L) is devoted to preserving and celebrating Nigeria’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Our mission is guided by a commitment to the meticulous study of history, the documentation of legacies, and the dissemination of knowledge that connects Nigeria’s past to its present and future.

At IHS-BiRD & L, we strive to ensure that the stories of influential individuals, pivotal events, and foundational organizations are authentically captured and preserved for posterity. By fostering a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s history, we aim to inspire a sense of pride, reflection, and identity among Nigerians, particularly the younger generation. Our work is grounded in the belief that history is not just a record of the past but a vital resource for navigating the present and envisioning the future.

Collaboration and education are integral to our approach. We serve as a hub for scholarly exchange, bringing together historians, researchers, and institutions to advance historical knowledge and its application. Through educational programs, resources, and publications, we seek to make history accessible and engaging for all, cultivating an informed and reflective society.

Our commitment to publishing and disseminating high-quality historical and biographical works further extends our reach, ensuring that the legacies of Nigeria’s people and events are celebrated and remembered. By aligning our efforts with these objectives, IHS-BiRD & L aspires to be a cornerstone in the preservation and promotion of Nigeria’s heritage.

Mission and Vision

Mission

Our mission is to promote and advance historical studies, biographical research, and the documentation of legacies that honour Nigeria’s heritage.

Vision

We envision a society where history serves as a bridge between the past and the future, inspiring individuals to pursue excellence and contribute to the betterment of Nigeria, Africa and the world.

Our Objectives

  1. Promoting and Advancing Historical Studies, Biographical Research, and Documentation of Legacies

    The Institute is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of Nigeria's rich historical heritage through comprehensive historical studies and biographical research. We aim to capture the lives and legacies of individuals who have played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s social, cultural, and political landscape. Through meticulous documentation and academic rigor, we ensure that these stories are preserved authentically and shared widely, providing valuable resources for scholars, students, and the general public. Our commitment to advancing historical research ensures that Nigeria’s past is not only preserved but also actively engaged with as a source of insight and inspiration.

  2. Preserving the Legacy of Significant Historical Figures, Events, and Organizations for the Benefit of Future Generations

    The Institute recognizes the importance of preserving the legacies of key historical figures, pivotal events, and foundational organizations that have contributed to Nigeria’s development. By curating archives, conducting interviews, and gathering personal narratives, we safeguard these stories as a resource for future generations. Our goal is to ensure that these legacies provide a source of pride, reflection, and guidance for young Nigerians, encouraging them to draw inspiration from the achievements and struggles of those who came before. This preservation work also serves as a bridge, connecting the past to the present and fostering a sense of identity and continuity within Nigerian society.

  3. Facilitating Scholarly Collaboration and Research Initiatives in Historical Studies

    Our Institute is committed to being a hub for scholarly collaboration, bringing together historians, researchers, and institutions dedicated to the study of Nigeria’s history. We believe that collective effort enhances the quality and reach of historical research. By organizing conferences, workshops, and joint research projects, we create opportunities for scholars to share ideas, collaborate on studies, and bring a diversity of perspectives to the field of historical research. This objective underscores our dedication to academic excellence and the advancement of knowledge through partnerships and shared learning.

  4. Providing Educational Support, Resources, and Programs to Deepen Understanding of History’s Impact on Society

    Education is at the heart of our mission. We aim to develop programs and provide resources that make history accessible and engaging for students, teachers, and the public. From school outreach programs to public lectures and workshops, we strive to cultivate an appreciation for history’s role in shaping society and fostering civic pride. Our educational initiatives encourage critical thinking and provide insights into how historical events and figures continue to influence modern life. By making historical knowledge available to all, we hope to create a more informed and reflective society.

  5. Printing, Publishing, and Collaborating on Media for Promoting Historical and Biographical Knowledge

    To extend the reach of our mission, we are committed to producing and disseminating high-quality publications that highlight Nigeria’s historical and biographical heritage. Our publications include journals, books, articles, and digital media, ensuring that historical knowledge is accessible both in print and online. Through our publications, we celebrate Nigeria’s legacy, document our research findings, and make them available to a wide audience, including researchers, students, and history enthusiasts. We believe that these publications serve as an enduring resource, capturing the stories of Nigeria’s past and providing inspiration for the future.

History

The Institute for Historical Studies, Biographical Research, Documentation, and Legacy (IHS-BiRD & L) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization officially incorporated on October 28, 2024, under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, with RC No. 8035631. Founded by Bem Max Nomor, a passionate historian and advocate for preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural and historical heritage, the Institute was born out of a clear and urgent mission to safeguard and celebrate the nation’s local histories, biographies, and cultural achievements.

IHS-BiRD & L was established in response to the growing neglect of historical documentation and the rapid erosion of oral traditions that have long been the cornerstone of Nigeria’s collective memory. The Institute bridges the gap between traditional oral histories and contemporary documentation techniques, ensuring that Nigeria’s stories and cultural legacies are not only preserved but also accessible for generations to come.

As the first organization of its kind in Africa dedicated exclusively to historical studies, biographical research, and legacy documentation, IHS-BiRD & L provides a unique platform for scholars, communities, individuals, and governments to collaborate in uncovering and preserving untold stories. By championing the documentation of local histories and the lives of remarkable individuals, the Institute seeks to ensure that the richness of Nigeria’s heritage becomes an enduring resource for learning, inspiration, and national pride.