Cambridge University to return more than 100 artefacts looted from Nigeria during a British military expedition in the 19th Century.
The objects, known collectively as the Benin Bronzes, were taken in 1897 when British forces attacked and occupied Benin City, in what is now southern Nigeria.
Ownership of 116 items held at the university’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) has now been formally transferred to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).
The university said arrangements were under way for the physical return of most of the artefacts, which is expected to take place before the end of the year.
The Benin Bronzes include intricately crafted plaques, sculptures and other works made between the 15th and 19th Centuries. They are regarded as being of deep cultural, spiritual and historical significance to the people of Edo State.
The restitution follows a formal request made by the NCMM in January 2022. The University of Cambridge backed the request, and approval for the transfer was granted by the UK’s Charity Commission.
Dr Nicholas Thomas, director of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, said the return marked an important step in addressing the legacy of colonial-era collecting.
“We acknowledge the violent circumstances in which these objects were taken and are committed to working collaboratively with our Nigerian partners,” he said.
Olugbile Holloway, director general of the NCMM, welcomed the decision, describing it as a milestone in efforts to reclaim cultural heritage.
“These artefacts are part of our history and identity,” he said. “We look forward to receiving them and making them accessible to Nigerians.”
The returned items are expected to be housed in museums in Benin City and Lagos, with plans for future permanent exhibitions.
The university added that 17 of the works would remain on loan in Cambridge for an initial period of three years to allow continued access for visitors, students and researchers.
The decision comes amid growing international pressure on Western institutions to return artefacts taken during colonial rule. Several museums across Europe and North America have announced similar restitution agreements in recent years.
Source: BBC news
