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Netherlands Returns 113 Looted Benin Bronzes To Nigeria - INDEPENDENT
In a historic move, the Netherlands has officially returned 113 artifacts from the Benin Bronzes collection to Nigeria, following a request from the West African nation.
Dutch Culture Minister Eppo Bruins announced the handover, acknowledging the cultural and historical significance of the pieces, which were originally taken by British forces from the Kingdom of Benin now part of modern-day Nigeria in 1897.
The returned artifacts, comprising plaques, pendants, and figurines, were previously housed in the Dutch National Collection at the Wereldmuseum in Leiden. Bruins emphasized the importance of the return, stating that it serves as a step toward addressing past injustices.
“With this return, we are contributing to the redress of a historical injustice that is still felt today,” Bruins said in a press release. “Heritage is essential for telling and experiencing the history of a country and community. The Benin Bronzes are therefore indispensable for Nigeria. It is good that they are returning.”
The transfer agreement was signed at the Wereldmuseum in Leiden, with Olugbile Holloway, Director General of Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments, present to receive the artifacts. Holloway described the return as the largest repatriation of looted antiquities in Nigeria’s history and expressed hope that other nations would follow suit.
In addition to the national return, the city of Rotterdam has also repatriated six additional Benin Bronzes from its collection.
These include a ceremonial bell, three relief plaques, a coconut holder, and a staff. Rotterdam official Said Kasmi highlighted the significance of the move, stating,
“Cultural heritage belongs where it has deep historical and spiritual meaning. This restitution is an important step in acknowledging the past and respecting Nigeria’s cultural legacy.”
“Art and heritage should be where they belong. These objects belong in Nigeria. With this return, we are taking an important step in recognizing the past and respecting the value that these objects represent for Nigeria.”
