Cambridge University has officially transferred ownership of 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM). The artefacts, part of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) collections, will be repatriated under a management agreement with the Benin Royal Palace.

The decision follows a formal request from NCMM in January 2022 for the return of objects taken by British armed forces during the sacking of Benin City in 1897. The returned artefacts include brass, ivory, and wooden sculptures.

NCMM Director-General Olugbile Holloway said the return marks a pivotal point in dialogue with Cambridge University, restoring pride and dignity lost during colonial violence. Professor Nicholas Thomas, MAA Director, emphasized the decade-long partnership and growing global support for repatriation.

Some artefacts will remain on loan at MAA for display and research. The move aligns with similar commitments by museums in the UK, US, and Europe.