FUNCTION

The functions of the Commission includes the collection, documentation, conservation and preservation of Nigeria’s past and present cultural/natural heritage. She is also responsible for the presentation of these cultural artefacts to the general public for the purpose of education, and entertainment.
In the language of the law that established the Commission (Decree 77 of 1979) the National Commission for Museums and Monuments exist to:
a. Administer National Museums, Antiquities and Monuments
b. Establish and maintain National Museums and other outlets in connection with but not
restricted only to the following:
i. Antiquities
ii. Science and Technology
iii. Warfare
iv. African, Black and other Antiquities
v. Arts and Crafts
vi. Architecture
vii. Natural
viii. Educational Services
c. Conduct and regulate Archeological Excavation and other related research activities.
d. Declare, gazette and maintain National Monuments as well as Heritage Sites.
e. Jointly, with States, Local Governments and Communities, establish Museum outlets at these levels.
The Commission also represents Nigeria at such International Cultural Bodies like International Council of Museums (ICOM), International Centre for the Study of the Restoration and Preservation of Cultural Property, Rome (ICCROM), International Council on Monuments and Site (ICOMOS), African Council on Museums (AFRICOM).
NCMM is the implementing Agency of the UNESCO World Heritage Programme for Nigeria under whose auspices are Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and the Sukur. Cultural Landscape of Adamawa State.