The Nigerian government is taking steps to strengthen laws and regional protocols aimed at facilitating the return of stolen artifacts. This move was announced by the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, at the 6th annual general assembly of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in Africa (NACIWA).
The EFCC chairman emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration among anti-corruption agencies in the region to combat corruption. The meeting, themed “Implementing the Ecowas Protocol on the Fight Against Corruption Towards Strengthening Institutions for Regional Unity,” brought together representatives from 14 member countries, including Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima and ministers of foreign affairs and justice.
This development comes after the recent return of two looted Royal stools from the German government to the Oba of Benin, highlighting the ongoing efforts to recover stolen artifacts. The Nigerian government aims to reinforce laws and regional cooperation to ensure the successful repatriation of stolen cultural assets.
