Evaluation of preservation approaches in mitigating the degradation of traditional musical instruments in Nigeria

This study investigates the degradation of traditional Nigerian musical instruments as a result of environmental factors and fungal infestations, especially by species like aspergillusniger, penicillium chrysogenum, fusarium oxysporum, and cladosporium cladosporioides. Instruments affected include wooden drums (bàtá, gángan), slit drums (ekwe), hide-covered membranophones (ema), and gourd rattles (ukuse). Nigeria’s tropical climate - with high humidity (70–85%), average temperatures around 27°C, seasonal rainfall changes, and consistent pollution - creates ideal conditions for fungal growth, accelerating instrument decay. Traditional preservation methods based on indigenous ecological knowledge such as applying neem oil and shea butter and storing instruments in smoke-treated, elevated chambers, prove effective and sustainable due to bioactive compounds that inhibit fungi. These culturally embedded practices require minimal resources but face threats from urbanisation, loss of artisanal skills, and declining intergenerational knowledge transfer. Modern conservation techniques like silica gel desiccants, UV-C irradiation, polymer coatings, and climate-controlled display cases offer precise control but are limited by high costs, electricity dependency, technical demands, and accessibility issues in rural areas. Based on Bio-deterioration and Integrated Conservation theories, the research advocates hybrid approaches combining traditional and scientific methods for long-term preservation, especially in resource-limited contexts. Protecting these instruments safeguards intangible cultural heritage, strengthens national identity, promotes tourism, and supports climate resilience. Recommendations include community-led conservation projects, national preservation guidelines, subsidised eco-friendly materials, solar-powered storage improvements, and integration of heritage protection in Nigeria’s climate policies. The study calls for interdisciplinary collaboration to sustain Nigeria’s rich musical traditions amid environmental and cultural challenges.