Switzerland Returns 18 Looted Benin Artefacts to Nigeria

Switzerland returned 18 Benin artefacts to Oba Ewuare II in a ceremony that signifies a major milestone in Nigeria's campaign to recover cultural treasures looted during the British punitive expedition of 1897. The artefacts were handed over at the Oba's palace in Benin City by a delegation led by Mr.

Olugbil Hollowai, the Director General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM). Oba Ewuare II praised the Swiss government for facilitating the return, describing it as a gesture of respect and justice for historical cultural identity.

He emphasized the importance of these artefacts as sacred symbols of the Benin Kingdom and urged other countries, particularly Germany, to implement agreements for the return of remaining artefacts. The return of these items is seen as a restoration of an important chapter in the Benin Kingdom's history, disrupted by the British invasion.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Edo State Governor Bless Agbebaku and Swiss Consul General Mr. Conni Camenzind.