In a significant development aimed at fostering cultural diplomacy and reconciliation, the Swedish government has announced its decision to return 39 pieces of Benin artefacts to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.
The Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund, conveyed this decision during a courtesy visit to the Oba at his palace in Benin, Edo State. Hahn-Englund highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Nigeria and Sweden, emphasizing their cooperation in various sectors, including culture, education, and trade.
She expressed the Swedish government’s commitment to returning the artefacts as a gesture of goodwill and cooperation between the two countries. The ambassador underscored the importance of cultural exchanges in strengthening ties between nations.
In response, the Oba of Benin welcomed the decision and expressed gratitude on behalf of the Edo people. He recalled his earlier request made to the Swedish monarch during a courtesy visit in 1998 and praised the Federal Government’s efforts in the Benin Royal Museum project.
The Oba commended the National Commission for Museums and Monuments for its role in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage and reiterated the longstanding demand for the return of looted Benin artefacts. He expressed his delight at the approval by the Swedish government, attributing it to divine timing.
