By Peter Omopo
29th August 2025
The Federal Government has begun discussions with Switzerland on the repatriation of Nigerian artefacts, including ancient monoliths and bronze pieces currently housed in Swiss museums.
The talks were initiated during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, in Abuja on Friday by the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick Egloff.
Egloff said Switzerland was committed to strengthening cultural diplomacy through bilateral agreements, adding that efforts to return the artefacts began three years ago. According to him, arrangements are underway to deliver some bronze works to Nigeria through its embassy before the end of the year.
“This is the first time a Swiss ambassador is meeting with a Nigerian Minister of Art and Culture. We are very interested in building stronger institutional cooperation, and restitution presents an opportunity to deepen cultural ties,” he said.
In her response, Musa-Musawa welcomed Switzerland’s commitment, stressing that the recovery of the artefacts was vital to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage. She described the meeting as an important step towards both restitution and broader collaboration in the arts and creative sectors.
The minister highlighted potential areas of cooperation, including animation, design, architecture, hospitality, and tourism, noting that cultural exchange with Switzerland could open new opportunities for Nigeria’s creative economy.
Both sides agreed to continue engagement and work towards finalising restitution arrangements alongside wider partnerships in culture and the arts.
