The Republic of Türkiye has formally invited the Federal Government of Nigeria to establish ownership and assert its claim over 76 wooden and metal artefacts believed to be of Nigerian origin.

According to diplomatic sources, the artefacts are currently in Türkiye and are suspected to have been taken out of Nigeria decades ago under unclear circumstances. The Turkish authorities said the invitation is part of ongoing efforts to promote cultural restitution and return heritage items to their rightful countries of origin.

Nigeria is expected to provide historical, archaeological, and legal documentation to confirm the provenance of the objects before any formal handover can take place.

The development comes amid a broader global movement encouraging museums and private collectors to return cultural treasures acquired during colonial and post-colonial periods.