In a landmark move for cultural heritage and international cooperation, the Republic of Türkiye has identified 76 wooden and metal artifacts believed to belong to Nigeria and is preparing to repatriate them back home, opening an important chapter in cultural diplomacy between Abuja and Ankara.
The development was confirmed by Turkey’s Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Mehmet Poroy, during a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy.
Artifacts Ready for Repatriation
According to the Turkish envoy, the artifacts — a mix of wooden and metal objects — were identified by Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism after information surfaced in May 2025. The ambassador said that formal discussions for their return will begin once the Nigerian government verifies and officially claims ownership of the pieces.
