By Lucy Adautin
The Swedish government has announced its intention to return 39 pieces of Benin Artefacts currently housed in its museums to the custody of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Ewuare II.
Heritage Times HT reports that this decision comes in response to the Federal Republic of Nigeria Gazette No. 57, Volume 110 issued on March 23, 2023, which officially recognizes the ownership and grants custody and management rights of repatriated Benin artefacts to the Oba of Benin.
During a courtesy visit to the Oba of Benin’s palace, the Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund, conveyed the Swedish government’s decision.
Ambassador Hahn-Englund highlighted the strong economic partnership between Sweden and Nigeria, particularly in infrastructure, telecommunications, energy, and other sectors that have significantly boosted both economies.
“Also, I would like to mention that with cooperation we have in culture, education with Nigeria, I would like to mention the decision of why the Swedish government has to return 39 artefacts to Benin Kingdom,” he said.
Responding, Oba Ewuare II expressed his deepest gratitude to the Swedish government for the intervention, saying “Edo people also welcome this decision”.
Additionally, the Oba praised the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) for its role in safeguarding, promoting, and enhancing Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Highlighting the longstanding demand for the return of looted Benin artefacts, the Oba noted that this issue has persisted since the reign of Oba Akenzua II.
“And you are here today (Wednesday) telling us that it has been approved. This has been my request long time ago. God’s time is always the best,” he added.
Accompanied by her husband and a member of the diplomatic mission, the Ambassador presented a souvenir to Oba Ewuare II during their visit to the palace. In return, the Oba graciously provided the envoy with a copy of the federal government gazette pertaining to all Benin artefacts.
