116 Benin artefacts officially returned to Nigeria by Cambridge University

Cambridge University has officially transferred legal ownership of 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).

The move, formalized on Monday, follows a formal request by the NCMM in January 2022 for the return of objects taken by British troops during the 1897 sacking of Benin City. Cambridge University described the transfer as a major step in its ongoing efforts to address the colonial-era dispossession of cultural heritage.

The artefacts, primarily cast in brass, also include ivory and wooden sculptures. They were seized during the so-called “Punitive Expedition” mounted by British forces in February 1897, following a violent trade dispute the previous month.

The university disclosed that arrangements for the physical transfer of most of the objects would be made in due course. However, a small number will remain in Cambridge, on loan and on display, ensuring continued access for visitors, students, and researchers.

Cambridge added that its decision aligns with similar commitments by museums across the UK, the United States, and Europe to return Benin material taken during the colonial period.

Nigeria to receive 116 carted Benin artefacts from Britain

Cambridge University officially transferred legal ownership of 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) today.

The University made this announcement following a formal request made by the NCMM in January 2022 for the return of objects taken by British troops during the 1897 sacking of Benin City.

According to the University, this is a major step in its ongoing efforts to address colonial-era dispossession of cultural heritage.

The artefacts, mainly cast in brass, also ivory and wooden sculptures, were seized during the so-called ‘Punitive Expedition’ mounted by British forces in February 1897, following a violent trade dispute the previous month.

The university said arrangements for the physical transfer of most of the objects would be made in due course.

The university, however, said a small number would remain in Cambridge, on loan and on display, where they will continue to be accessible to visitors, students and researchers.

The university said its decision aligned with similar commitments made by museums in the UK, the United States and Europe to return Benin material taken during the colonial period.