Switzerland Agrees to Return Benin Bronzes to Nigeria

Switzerland has reached an agreement to return Benin bronzes and artefacts to Nigeria, marking a significant step in cultural restitution. The agreement was made during a meeting between Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima and Swiss Vice President and Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis in Abuja on Tuesday.

Accompanied by his wife, Paola Rodoni, Cassis engaged in closed-door talks with Shettima, where he pledged Switzerland's support for Nigeria in addressing insecurity in the northeast and ongoing vocational training efforts by Swiss companies operating in the country. Cassis confirmed the plan to return the artefacts and noted that both countries regularly meet to review progress in areas of mutual interest, including migration and cultural exchange.

Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, emphasized the importance of this agreement in strengthening the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Switzerland, which dates back to 1961. Cassis is expected to visit Nigeria soon to advance the restitution process.