Cambridge University Returns 116 Benin Artefacts to Nigeria in Repatriation Effort

Cambridge University in England has returned 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria, following a formal request from Nigeria's National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in January 2022. The artefacts, mainly consisting of cast brass, ivory, and wooden sculptures, were taken by British troops during the 1897 sack of Benin City.

The return of these artefacts is seen as a major step in addressing the historical dispossession of cultural heritage during the colonial era. The physical transfer of the objects was arranged by the university, with a small number remaining on loan for display at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA).

This repatriation effort is part of a broader global movement to return cultural items taken during colonial periods. The NCMM's Director-General, Olugbile Hollowai, described the transfer as a turning point in the development of cultural dialogue and expressed hope that it would lead to further repatriations.

The move has been commended by Nigeria's Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and the Director of MAA, Prof. Nichola Thomas.