The Switzerland Ambassador to Nigeria, Chad, Niger and ECOWAS, Patrick Egloff says ongoing consultation towards the restitution of repatriated Benin bronzes that were looted during British expedition on Benin Kingdom in 1897, will continue through the Benin Palace in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
The Envoy made the commitment when he paid a courtesy visit to Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin at the weekend in acknowledgement of Oba Ewuare’s efforts.
Ambassador Egloff revealed that the Benin Palace is not be sidelined in ongoing restitution efforts by Switzerland government that is already working with Curators at the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and a team of Researchers behind what he termed ‘the Bronze structure’ with the support of the Nigerian government and local authorities towards the preservation of the Benin Art.
Ambassador Egloff said: “I repeat your Majesty that you have been and will continue to be part of this process; And the consultation through the Palace will continue”.
The Envoy stated that Switzerland government remains committed to the Nigerian government in area of Culture, Vocational training for young Nigerians and Anti-trafficking as well as Migration projects.
In his remarks, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, prayed Almighty God and his Royal ancestors to make the mission of the Switzerland Ambassador successful.
Reflecting on this Diplomatic service as Nigerian Ambassador in Rome, Italy where he overseeing some Scandinavian nations, Oba Ewuare drew the attention of the Envoy to Oba Ewuare Foundation and solicited solicited government of Switzerland partnership.
“We like to reactivate the Foundation which is very keen in rehabilitation of victims of trafficking, Illegal Migration and others.
“We will be discussing with you on the need for collaboration. We thank you and wish you well. We are here to assist you”, Oba Ewuare said.
Responding in an interview, Ambassador Egloff described Oba Ewuare remarks as heartwarming and pledged his commitment to the tradition of Benin.
The session also featured a display by a socio-cultural group of entertainers betting loyalty to the Palace.
