Netherlands to return stolen Benin Bronzes to Nigeria

The Netherlands will return more than 100 stolen Benin Bronzes to Nigeria After British troops looted thousands of these culturally significant sculptures and carvings from Nigeria in the late 19th century and they ended up in a Dutch museum, the artifacts were sold, some to private collectors and others to museums like the Wereldmuseum in the Netherlands, which has had them on display for decades. According to Olugbile Holloway, director-general of Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), the return of the 119 artifacts is the “largest repatriation of Benin antiquities.” They include figurines, tusks, sculptures of Benin’s rulers, and an ivory mask. They were made during between the 15th and 19th Centuries.

On Wednesday, a transfer of agreement must be executed. Mr. Holloway went on to say he hoped this would serve as a positive model for other nations.

In 2022, Germany was the first to address its “dark colonial history” by returning more than 20 Benin bronzes.

Dutch Minister of Culture, Education, and Science Eppo Bruins stated, “With this return, we are contributing to the redress of a historical injustice that is still felt today,” according to the AFP news agency.For the inhabitants of that region of Nigeria, the sculptures hold historical and spiritual significance and are valued for their beauty and technical talent.

The descendants of people from the old Benin kingdom are still hurt by their theft.

This action might put more pressure on other organizations—particularly the British Museum, which houses more than 900 artifacts—to return the Benin Bronzes.

A campaign to bring them back has included protests and demonstrations outside the British Museum.

However, an act of parliament bans the British Museum from sending them back.

For many in Nigeria, the Benin Bronzes are a poignant reminder of the cruelty of colonialism.

The NCMM has made formal repatriation petitions to museums across the world.

Nigeria announced plans to open the largest collection of Benin Bronzes ever gathered at the Edo Museum of West African Art in Benin City in 2026. The museum was created by British-Ghanaian architect Sir David Adjaye.