The Republic of Türkiye said it has identified 76 wooden and metal artefacts believed to belong to Nigeria and is eager to return them, marking a significant step in the global movement to restore looted artefacts.
The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, disclosed this on Thursday, when he paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, in Abuja.
Mr Poroy said discussions for their return will commence immediately the Nigerian government officially identifies and claims ownership of the objects.
“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.
“We hope to sign a cultural cooperation agreement during the upcoming visit of Nigeria’s President to Turkey. We are committed to promoting cultural understanding and cooperation between our nations,” Mr Poroy said.
The envoy discussed plans to establish a cultural centre in Nigeria to promote traditional arts and educate young Nigerian women. He invited Nigerian officials to upcoming cultural events, including a photo exhibition and Turkish coffee chat.
In her response, Ms Musawa emphasised the importance of finalising the cultural cooperation agreement, urging officials to expedite the process.
She highlighted Nigeria’s interest in collaborating with Turkey on film industry projects, cultural exchanges, and empowering women in fashion.
She emphasised Nigeria’s role in global cultural dialogue, particularly within the Global South, and the potential for a Turkey-Nigeria partnership to promote cultural understanding and economic growth.
“This is a golden opportunity for both countries to strengthen cultural diplomacy. Nigeria is the gateway to talking to the black global community, purely because of our numbers and strength of expression. We urge officials to expedite the process of finalising the cultural cooperation agreement.”
According to her, the identification of the artefacts and the ongoing discussions underscore the commitment of both countries to strengthen cultural diplomacy and explore new areas of collaboration.
“Nigeria sees this as an opportunity to reclaim its cultural heritage and promote economic growth through cultural tourism,” she said.
