Turkey Identifies 76 Nigerian Artifacts for Repatriation
The Republic of Türkiye has announced its intention to repatriate 76 wooden and metal artifacts believed to belong to Nigeria, marking a significant step in cultural diplomacy between the two nations. The development was disclosed by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, during a courtesy visit to Nigeria's Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, in Abuja on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Details of the Repatriation Process
Ambassador Poroy stated that the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism identified these artifacts after receiving information about them in May 2025. Discussions for their return will formally commence once the Nigerian government officially establishes ownership of the objects and submits a formal claim. Ambassador Poroy was quoted saying, 'Our Minister of Culture and Tourism has identified 76 wooden and metal objects that they think might belong to Nigeria. We received information about these artefacts last May and we are eager to see them returned to Nigeria.'
Deepening Cultural Cooperation
Beyond the repatriation of artifacts, both countries are actively pursuing deeper cultural cooperation. A key initiative is the anticipated signing of a cultural cooperation agreement during an upcoming visit by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Turkey. This agreement is expected to be a major step towards strengthening bilateral cultural ties.
Further plans include the establishment of a Turkish cultural center in Nigeria, which aims to promote traditional arts, cultural education, and empower young Nigerian women. Minister Musawa welcomed these developments, emphasizing Nigeria's interest in collaborating with Turkey on various cultural fronts, including film production, cultural exchanges, and women empowerment initiatives in fashion and the creative economy.
Broader Bilateral Relations
The move to repatriate artifacts and enhance cultural cooperation underscores the growing relationship between Turkey and Nigeria. Nigeria is recognized as Turkey's largest sub-Saharan African trading partner, highlighting the existing strong economic ties that are now being complemented by robust cultural exchanges. This initiative is seen as a 'golden opportunity to strengthen cultural diplomacy,' as noted by Minister Musawa, who also emphasized Nigeria's role as a 'gateway to engaging the Black global community.'
5 Comments
Coccinella
They're returning wooden artifacts, but what about the more valuable pieces?
Muchacha
Finally, some justice for stolen artifacts! This is exactly what we need.
Michelangelo
While the return of these artifacts is a welcome development, one must question the timing. Is this primarily a political gesture to bolster trade relations rather than a pure act of cultural restitution?
Raphael
Fantastic cultural diplomacy, a true step forward for international relations!
Donatello
This move certainly strengthens diplomatic ties with Turkey, which is beneficial. However, it shouldn't overshadow the ongoing struggle to retrieve countless other artifacts from other major colonial powers.