Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, announced on Thursday that his government has identified 76 artefacts, comprising wooden and metal objects, which are thought to belong to Nigeria. He shared this information during a meeting with Nigeria's Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, in Abuja.
"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 artefacts last May, and we are eager to see them returned to Nigeria," Ambassador Poroy stated. He further indicated that the process of returning the artefacts would commence once Nigeria officially confirms their ownership.
This revelation coincides with President Bola Tinubu's upcoming state visit to Turkey. In anticipation of the visit, Mr. Tinubu has appointed Dakingari Suleiman, the former governor of Kebbi State, as Nigeria's ambassador- designate to Turkey. Ambassador Poroy expressed strong optimism regarding the visit, stating, "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."
Beyond the artefact recovery, the ambassador outlined plans for the establishment of a Turkish cultural centre within Nigeria. This initiative aims to foster traditional arts and provide educational opportunities for young Nigerian women.
Minister Musawa welcomed these proposals, underscoring the significance of finalizing the cultural cooperation agreement. She expressed Nigeria's keen interest in collaborating with Turkey on various fronts, including film production, cultural exchange programs, and initiatives to empower women in the fashion industry. "This is a golden opportunity for both countries to strengthen cultural diplomacy. Nigeria is the gateway to engaging with the global Black community, purely because of our numbers and strength of expression," Minister Musawa remarked.
The minister urged for prompt action to finalize the agreement, highlighting its potential to enhance cultural understanding and stimulate economic growth between Nigeria and Turkey.
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