Nigeria Moves To Claim Artefacts In Türkiye
The Republic of Türkiye has invited the Federal Government to formally prove ownership of 76 wooden and metal artefacts believed to have originated from Nigeria.
The invitation opens a fresh chapter in discussions around cultural heritage and restitution.
The request was conveyed through diplomatic channels as Turkish authorities seek official documentation and historical records to confirm Nigeria’s claim to the items, which are currently in Türkiye’s custody.
The artefacts are thought to have been removed from Nigeria decades ago.
Officials familiar with the matter say the move follows growing global attention on the return of cultural objects taken from Africa during the colonial era.
Nigeria has been at the centre of similar recovery efforts involving museums and governments across Europe and beyond.
The Federal Government is expected to work through relevant ministries, historians and cultural institutions to establish the origin and ownership of the artefacts, a step that could pave the way for their eventual return.
If successful, the process could strengthen Nigeria’s ongoing campaign to reclaim looted heritage and deepen cultural cooperation between Abuja and Ankara
