In a recent statement by Dele Alake, the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Special Duties, Communications, and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed his commitment to safeguarding the Benin artefacts that have been repatriated to Nigeria from various parts of the world, News About Nigeria reports.
The President emphasized the importance of preserving these artefacts as a means of documenting the history of the Benin people.
During a meeting with the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, and other traditional leaders from Edo State, President Tinubu assured them of his administration’s support in establishing a museum dedicated to housing these valuable cultural treasures.
He applauded the Benin monarch for his efforts in reclaiming the stolen artefacts and recognized the significance of constructing a museum that would effectively preserve and showcase the rich history and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
The President expressed his satisfaction with the return of the artefacts and assured the Oba that they would be securely protected.
He acknowledged the historical value of these artefacts, which have been absent from Nigeria for over a century, and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating on the establishment of the museum.
President Tinubu also mentioned that the Federal Government is presently conducting an audit of its infrastructure projects and assured the Oba that the roads in Edo State would be duly considered, responding to a request made by the traditional ruler.
In his address, Oba Ewuare II commended President Tinubu for the remarkable achievements made by his administration in its early weeks. He expressed his confidence in the President’s ability to hit the ground running and praised him for exceeding expectations.
The Oba stated that the steps taken by President Tinubu since his inauguration on May 29, 2023, have instilled hope in Nigerians and set the country on a promising path of progress and development.
Furthermore, the monarch appealed to President Tinubu to collaborate with the Benin Palace to ensure that the repatriated artefacts are protected from theft or any unauthorized claims.
Oba Ewuare II extended his gratitude to the Federal Government for appointing him as the Pro-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), expressing his appreciation for the recognition and opportunity to contribute to the country’s educational sector.
