Turkey has identified 76 wooden and metal artefacts believed to belong to Nigeria, raising fresh hopes for the repatriation of the country’s looted cultural heritage.

The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.

Poroy said Turkish authorities traced the artefacts in May 2025 and were keen on facilitating their immediate return once Nigeria formally confirms ownership.

“Our Minister of Culture and Tourism has identified 76 wooden and metal objects believed to belong to Nigeria. We received this information last May and are eager to ensure their return,” he said.

The ambassador noted that formal discussions on the repatriation process would commence as soon as the Nigerian government officially lays claim to the artefacts.

Poroy also revealed plans to deepen cultural ties between both countries, particularly as President Bola Tinubu is billed for a state visit to Turkey next week. He said a cultural cooperation agreement is expected to be signed during the visit.

In preparation for the trip, Tinubu recently appointed Dakingari Suleiman, former Kebbi State governor, as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Turkey.

“We are hopeful that the visit will culminate in the signing of a cultural cooperation agreement. Turkey remains committed to strengthening cultural understanding and collaboration with Nigeria,” Poroy added.

He further disclosed plans to establish a Turkish Cultural Centre in Nigeria aimed at promoting traditional arts and supporting the education and empowerment of young Nigerian women.

Responding, Musawa stressed the importance of swiftly concluding the cultural agreement, describing it as a strategic opportunity for both nations.

She said Nigeria is particularly interested in partnerships with Turkey in film production, cultural exchange programmes, fashion development, and women empowerment initiatives.

“This is a golden opportunity to strengthen cultural diplomacy. Nigeria remains the gateway to engaging the Black global community, given our population size and cultural influence,” the minister said.

Musawa urged relevant officials to fast-track the processes required to finalise the cultural cooperation framework, adding that such collaboration would foster cultural understanding and stimulate economic growth.