Cambridge University returns 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria

Cambridge University returns 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria

Cambridge University has transferred legal ownership of 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), marking a major step in addressing colonial-era looting.

The artefacts, taken during the 1897 British sacking of Benin City, include brass, ivory and wooden works. While most will be physically returned to Nigeria later, a few will remain in Cambridge on loan.

NCMM Director-General Olugbile Holloway described the move as a turning point, urging other museums to follow suit.