Nigeria, Switzerland discuss cultural cooperation, repatriation of artifacts in Abuja meeting
The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy has initiated talks with the Swiss government on cultural cooperation and the repatriation of Nigerian artifacts currently held in Swiss museums, including monoliths and bronze pieces.
The discussions took place during a courtesy visit to Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa in Abuja on Friday by the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Patrick Felix Egloff. The ambassador expressed Switzerland’s willingness to enter into bilateral agreements and strengthen cultural diplomacy with Nigeria.
“This is the first time a Swiss ambassador is meeting with a Nigerian Minister of Art and Culture. We are very interested in building institutional cooperation with the ministry, and we believe the restitution of these artifacts presents a significant opportunity to strengthen our ties,” Ambassador Egloff said.
He revealed that the process of returning the artifacts began three years ago and expressed hope that the bronze pieces would be handed over through the Nigerian Embassy by the end of the year.
Minister Musawa thanked the Swiss government for their efforts, emphasizing the importance of retrieving the artifacts for Nigeria’s cultural heritage. She described the meeting as a critical step in strengthening cultural ties and exploring new areas of bilateral cooperation.
Highlighting potential sectors for collaboration, Minister Musawa mentioned animation, design, architecture, hospitality, and tourism as opportunities to deepen cultural and creative partnerships between the two countries.
“It is crucial for Nigeria to reclaim these artifacts and engage in a wider conversation with Switzerland about the restitution process. This discussion will also help us explore cooperation opportunities in other sectors such as animation, design, architecture, hospitality, and tourism,” she said.
Both parties agreed to continue discussions and explore further collaboration in the arts and cultural sectors, building on existing diplomatic efforts and demonstrating their commitment to enhancing cultural relations.
