Nigeria has recorded another powerful victory in the global fight to reclaim its stolen cultural identity, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs officially handed over two priceless Benin Bronzes to the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy. The items—a bronze relief plaque and a commemorative bronze head—were originally looted during the brutal 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom.
The handover ceremony, held on Monday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to retrieve historic artifacts scattered across museums and private collections worldwide.
Speaking during the event, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, expressed deep gratitude to Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar for his role in securing the return of the pieces from the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston.
Musawa described the moment as “historic for Nigeria, the Ministry, and the good people of the Benin Kingdom,” adding that more conversations are ongoing with other institutions still in possession of similar artifacts. She assured that the process of returning all looted heritage objects to their rightful home is firmly underway.
The Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, also praised all individuals and institutions who contributed to the long-awaited repatriation. He acknowledged the unwavering efforts of His Royal Highness, Prince Aghatise Erediauwa, who played a leading role in advocating for the return of the items.
Holloway emphasized the national significance of the ceremony, noting that although the artifacts originated from Benin, they represent a broader Nigerian heritage. “We also have objects from Ife, so this event is historic irrespective of the small gathering,” he added.
A symbolic handover was conducted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the presence of three high chiefs representing Oba Ewuare II, the revered monarch of the Benin Kingdom. Their presence underscored the cultural and spiritual weight attached to the return of these precious items.
The event was attended by top officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, and the NCMM, marking another step forward in Nigeria’s mission to restore and protect its cultural legacy.
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