Cambridge University Returns 116 Benin Artefacts To Nigeria In Historic Repatriation
In a landmark move, Cambridge University in the United Kingdom has officially returned 116 Benin artefacts from its Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM). The decision marks a major step in addressing the colonial-era seizure of cultural heritage and restoring national pride.
The artefacts, primarily cast in brass, along with ivory and wooden sculptures, were looted during the 1897 Punitive Expedition by British forces following a trade dispute in Benin City. The university confirmed that arrangements for the physical transfer of most objects to Nigeria will be completed in due course, with a few remaining on loan for research and display in Cambridge.
The move comes after a formal request from the NCMM in January 2022 and subsequent approval by the UK Charity Commission. Cambridge University noted that the decision aligns with global efforts by institutions in the UK, US, and Europe to repatriate cultural property taken during the colonial era.
Over the past decade, MAA curators have engaged in sustained dialogue with Nigerian stakeholders, including the Benin Royal Court, academics, artists, and government officials. Since 2018, curators visited Benin City, meeting the Oba of Benin and other leaders, fostering long-term collaboration. The university also hosted the Benin Dialogue Group in 2017 and received delegations from NCMM in 2021.
Reacting to the repatriation, NCMM Director-General Olugbile Holloway described the return as a historic milestone. “This is not just the return of physical objects; it is the restoration of pride and dignity for Nigeria and its people,” he said, praising Cambridge University’s commitment to ethical cultural stewardship. Holloway also thanked Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, for supporting the process.
Professor Nicholas Thomas, Director of MAA, highlighted that the repatriation reflects years of engagement, research, and growing international consensus on returning artefacts acquired under colonial violence. “The university community has strongly supported this step, and it has been immensely rewarding to collaborate with Nigerian colleagues and cultural authorities,” he said.
The NCMM oversees 53 museums, 65 national monuments, and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites across Nigeria. Founded in 1884, MAA is one of Cambridge University’s oldest museums, housing collections spanning global cultural history, archaeology, and contemporary Indigenous art.
This repatriation is expected to spur other museums worldwide to return looted artefacts, further strengthening the global movement to restore stolen cultural heritage to its rightful communities.