Turkey Signals Return of 76 Nigerian Artifacts, Plans Cultural Center in Nigeria

Turkey has indicated the return of 76 Nigerian artifacts during a courtesy visit by the Turkish ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa in Abuja. The Turkish ambassador expressed readiness to initiate formal discussions for the return of the artifacts, which were identified by Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism as having Nigerian origins.

The Nigerian government officials confirmed ownership of the items and expressed optimism about bilateral cultural cooperation. Plans include the signing of a cultural cooperation agreement during an upcoming official visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Turkey.

Additionally, Turkey intends to establish a Turkish cultural center in Nigeria to promote traditional art, cultural exchanges, and skill development, with a focus on empowering young Nigerian women. The Nigerian minister welcomed the development, emphasizing the need to expedite the proposed cultural cooperation agreement to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance Nigeria's global cultural influence.