The Swedish government has decided to return 39 Benin artifacts from its museum to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.
The decision follows a federal government gazette recognizing the Oba’s ownership and custody of repatriated Benin artifacts.
Annika Hahn-Englund, the Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria announced the development during a courtesy visit to the Oba’s palace in Benin City, Edo State.
Hahn-Englund stressed the strong trade partnership between Sweden and Nigeria, spanning infrastructure, telecommunications, energy, and other economic areas.
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She highlighted the cultural and educational cooperation between the two nations, leading to the Swedish government’s decision to return the artifacts.
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Oba Ewuare II, on the other hand, thanked the Swedish government for its gesture, recalling his 1998 request to the Swedish monarch during his tenure as Nigeria’s ambassador to Scandinavian countries.
He also acknowledged the ongoing Benin Royal Museum project, backed by the federal government, and commended partners for their support.
The Oba praised the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) for their role in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
He shared a fascinating account of his diplomatic experiences in Scandinavian countries and praised the Swedish monarch’s enduring affection.
According to him, Oba the demand for the return of looted Benin artifacts dates back to the reign of Oba Akenzua II, as such, he is grateful for the Swedish government’s approval.
The Ambassador further presented a souvenir to the Oba, who reciprocated with a copy of the federal government gazette on Benin artifacts.
