President Tinubu pledges commitment to preserve Benin artefacts, historical legacy
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured the monarch of Benin of his commitment to safeguarding the returned Benin artefacts, which have been retrieved from various parts of the world.
In a press release issued by Dele Alake, Special Adviser for Special Duties, Communication, and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed his dedication to preserving these artefacts as a means of preserving the history of the Benin people.
During a meeting with the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, and other traditional leaders from Edo State, the President conveyed his support for the Benin Royal Council’s endeavour to establish a museum that would serve as a suitable repository for these artefacts.
He congratulated the Benin monarch on the successful recovery of the stolen artefacts and commended his efforts in ensuring the creation of a museum that would accurately portray the rich history and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
“These artefacts deserve our protection. We are delighted to have them back, and your satisfaction brings us great joy. They are now in protective custody, safeguarded for posterity. We recognize the significance of their historical value spanning over a hundred years, and we are committed to working on the establishment of a museum,” President Tinubu declared.
Furthermore, President Tinubu revealed that the Federal Government is presently conducting an audit of its infrastructure projects and assured the traditional ruler that the roads in Edo State would be given due consideration as per the ruler’s request.
In his address, Oba Ewuare II praised President Tinubu for the remarkable achievements of his administration in its initial weeks.
“We anticipated that you would hit the ground running, and you have exceeded our expectations by doing so even more swiftly,” the royal leader remarked.
The monarch acknowledged that President Tinubu’s actions since his inauguration on May 29, 2023, have instilled renewed hope in Nigerians and set the nation on a path of progress and development.
He implored President Tinubu to assist the Benin Palace in ensuring that the returned artefacts are not stolen or seized from the Benin Royal House.
Additionally, Oba Ewuare II expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for appointing him as the Pro-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
