However, a growing movement is reversing centuries-long,steady, outward flow of ancient African art towards other horizons. The return put pressure on the British Museum to return over 900 objects, the largest collection of ancient African art in the world. Nigerian art historian, Chika Okeke-Agulu said that it reminds him of a “thief demanding the construction of a secure facility before returning a stolen BMW.”The arguments for returning ancient African art are not just rhetorical. If this movement continues, we may see priceless works of art return home. However, the time for Africa’s ancient art to return to its homeland, increase the continent’s soft power and stimulate its economy has arrived.

Source: The North Africa Journal April 11, 2023 10:34 UTC