Turkey Signals Return of 76 Nigerian Artefacts

The Republic of Türkiye has identified 76 wooden and metal artefacts believed to be of Nigerian origin, a development that may pave the way for their repatriation and strengthen cultural relations between the two countries.

The disclosure was made by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, in Abuja on Thursday.

Ambassador Poroy said Türkiye was ready to begin formal discussions on the return of the artefacts once the Nigerian government officially confirms and asserts ownership.

He also expressed optimism that a bilateral cultural cooperation agreement would be signed during the forthcoming official visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Türkiye.

According to the ambassador, the artefacts were identified by Türkiye’s Minister of Culture and Tourism after information was received in May 2024.

He noted that the items, which include wooden and metal works, are believed to be Nigerian in origin and reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to their return, alongside efforts to deepen structured cultural cooperation with Nigeria.

Beyond the issue of repatriation, Poroy disclosed plans to establish a Turkish cultural centre in Nigeria to promote traditional arts, cultural exchange and skills development, with particular focus on young Nigerian women.

He also extended invitation to Nigerian officials to participate in upcoming cultural events, including a photo exhibition and a Turkish coffee cultural programme.

In her remarks, Minister Musawa welcomed the development and stressed the need to fast track the proposed cultural cooperation agreement.

She urged relevant officials from both countries to accelerate the process, noting Nigeria’s strong interest in collaboration with Türkiye in the film industry, cultural exchanges, fashion and women empowerment initiatives.

The minister emphasised Nigeria’s growing influence in global cultural discourse, especially within the Global South, and said a stronger Türkiye-Nigeria partnership could advance cultural diplomacy, mutual understanding and economic growth.

She described the identification of the artefacts as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations, adding that Nigeria’s population size and cultural reach position it as a key gateway to engagement with the global Black community.

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