Lagos: The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has declared that stamp collection, known as Philately, is an asset comparable to landed property and shares. Mrs. Folashade Farinu, General Manager of the Nigeria Philately Bureau, emphasized its potential for wealth creation during an excursion by pupils from Great Fountain Hall Nursery and Primary School to the bureau’s Lagos office.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Farinu described Philately as not just a hobby but an educational and economically viable activity. She highlighted its potential to appreciate over time, akin to assets like real estate and shares, offering income opportunities, especially when stamps go out of stock. She explained that collectors could capitalize on the demand for specific stamps needed to validate historical documents, often selling them at prices above their face value.
Farinu also pointed out that stamps reflect culture, history, and heritage, making them valuable for education and personal development. She mentioned plans to digitize stamp services to attract young people and sustain the relevance of philately in the modern era, aligning with global trends and increasing youth participation.
Mrs. Rosemary Isong, Counter Manager at the bureau, educated the pupils on the types of stamps: commemorative and definitive, and explained the tools required for proper handling and preservation. She encouraged the pupils to consider philately as a hobby or future income source, highlighting its role in promoting learning, social interaction, and access to global markets.
Furthermore, Mr. Abraham Joseph, Chief Supervisor at the bureau, guided the pupils through the stamp museum, discussing the importance of stamps to Nigeria and Africa. The pupils expressed enthusiasm, with Master Anjola Lawal and Bethel Aja gaining insights into Nigeria’s history and the significance of stamps.
The excursion, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, featured exhibitions of historical Nigerian stamps and thematic collections. The pupils were also introduced to letter writing and posting through NIPOST to various destinations.