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Germany is to precious artefacts that were plundered from Nigeria during the colonial era in the late-19th century. The world-famous Benin Bronzes currently on display at a museum in Leipzig. The Bronzes a collection of more than a thousand metal plaques, sculptures and statues. They were by the Edo people in what used to be the Kingdom of Benin from the 13th century. They the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, in what now Nigeria. Most of the objects were by British forces in 1897. Two hundred pieces were to the British Museum in London, while others went to museums across Europe. Nigeria has for decades to get them .

Experts say the 16th-18th century returning pieces among the most highly regarded works of African art. Many Nigerians are their return. Nigeria's Institute for Benin Studies said Germany is, " in the global restitution movement" of former colonial powers looted treasures. It said: "Other European nations should willing and open to that all objects looted in 1897 to the Benin people. Like Germany, they too should or join the dialogue to discuss the future of these objects." However, some Nigerians the objects are safer in Europe. One man said: "With the insecurity now, the safety of those artefacts cannot guaranteed."