London, United Kingdom, October 2, 2025. As part of the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Nembe Bayelsa State, RosaLyn, the founder and President of the King Koko foundation, paid an official visit to the British Library in London to conduct further research on King Koko, one of the most influential historical figures of Nigeria.
The visit, which took place on October 2, 2025, forms part of RosaLyn’s broader initiative to deepen academic and cultural understanding of King Koko’s leadership, diplomacy, and resistance in the late 19th century. Her research aims to uncover archival materials and historical records that highlight King Koko’s contributions to self-determination, governance, and cultural identity.
During her time at the British Library, RosaLyn engaged with the library’s Africa and Caribbean Collections, examining rare manuscripts, colonial records, and correspondence related to the Nembe Kingdom and its interactions with British authorities. The findings from this research will contribute to upcoming scholarly work and enrich the narrative being prepared for the King Koko Symposium 2026, themed “Honouring Heritage, Strengthening Governance, and Building Bridges Through Cultural Diplomacy.”
“Accessing these archives is not just about revisiting history; it’s about reclaiming narratives that shape our collective identity,” RosaLyn remarked. “King Koko’s story continues to inspire conversations around sovereignty, leadership, and cultural pride.”
The research trip marks an important step in the ongoing preparations for the King Koko Symposium 2026, where scholars, cultural leaders, and policymakers will convene to explore the intersections of history, governance, and diplomacy. The foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that document and celebrate Bayelsa’s enduring heritage on the global stage.