THE Republic of Türkiye has identified 76 wooden and metal artifacts believed to belong to Nigeria, paving the way for their repatriation and potentially strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.
The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Mehmet Poroy, made this known on Thursday when he paid a courtesy visit to the Hon Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa Esq., in Abuja.
Ambassador Poroy stated that discussions for their return will commence immediately the Nigerian government officially identifies and claims ownership of the objects. He also expressed hope that a cultural cooperation agreement between Turkey and Nigeria could be signed during the upcoming visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Turkey.
“Our minister of Culture and tourism has identified 76 wooden and metal objects that they think might belong to Nigeria. We received information about these artifacts last May and we are eager to see them returned to Nigeria.
“We hope to sign a cultural cooperation agreement during the upcoming visit of Nigeria’s President to Turkey. We are committed to promoting cultural understanding and cooperation between our nations,” he said.
Ambassador Poroy discussed plans to establish a cultural center in Nigeria to promote traditional arts and educate young Nigerian women. He invited Nigerian officials to upcoming cultural events, including a photo exhibition and Turkish coffee chat.
In her response, Minister Musawa emphasized the importance of finalizing the cultural cooperation agreement, urging officials to expedite the process. The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s interest in collaborating with Turkey on film industry projects, cultural exchanges, and empowering women in fashion.
She emphasized Nigeria’s role in global cultural dialogue, particularly within the Global South, and the potential for Turkey-Nigeria partnership to promote cultural understanding and economic growth.
“This is a golden opportunity for both countries to strengthen cultural diplomacy. Nigeria is the gateway to talking to the black global community, purely because of our numbers and strength of expression. We urge officials to expedite the process of finalizing the cultural cooperation agreement.”
The identification of the artifacts and the ongoing discussions underscore the commitment of both countries to strengthen cultural diplomacy and explore new areas of collaboration. Nigeria sees this as an opportunity to reclaim its cultural heritage and promote economic growth through cultural tourism.
