By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Olugbile Holloway, on his inclusion in the inaugural TIME100 Art list. The recognition, announced in September 2026, honours 100 influential figures shaping the future of art worldwide. President Tinubu praised Holloway’s work in recovering Nigeria’s cultural treasures and strengthening heritage institutions.
Tinubu Praises Holloway’s Cultural Heritage Efforts
President Tinubu said the recognition reflects the important work Holloway and the NCMM have undertaken.
The efforts focus on recovering Nigeria’s cultural treasures and preserving the nation’s heritage.
Since his appointment in March 2024, Holloway has pursued the recovery of Nigeria’s cultural artefacts.
He has also worked with His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin.
Together, they established a framework for retrieving, conserving and exhibiting returned Benin artefacts.
The framework has strengthened Nigeria’s position in discussions with foreign governments and institutions.
It has also supported negotiations with universities and museums holding Nigerian cultural objects.
NCMM Secures Return of Benin Bronzes
Under Holloway’s leadership, the NCMM secured the return of 119 Benin Bronzes from the Netherlands.
The Commission also secured the legal transfer of 116 Benin Bronzes from the University of Cambridge.
In addition, Switzerland recently returned 18 Benin Bronzes and four Ikom monoliths to Nigeria.
These developments have strengthened Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to recover its cultural property.
The Federal Government considers the returns important steps towards restoring Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Nigeria Launches Digital Museum of Antiquities
The NCMM has also launched Nigeria’s first digital museum of antiquities.
The platform features more than 200 objects from the National Museum in Lagos.
The Commission scanned the objects in three dimensions for digital preservation and public access.
Visitors can explore the collection through an immersive online platform.
As a result, more people can access Nigeria’s cultural heritage through digital technology.
Tinubu Commends National Museum Renovation
President Tinubu also praised the renovation of the National Museum in Lagos.
The project includes upgraded galleries and modern display systems.
It also provides improved facilities for preserving and presenting Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
According to the President, such improvements will strengthen public access to Nigeria’s history.
They will also help museums serve future generations more effectively.
Cultural Property Returns Represent Historical Justice
President Tinubu described the return of Nigeria’s cultural property as an important act of historical justice.
He said the process also restores the dignity and memory of communities connected to the artefacts.
Furthermore, he commended Holloway for his diplomacy and institutional leadership.
The President also congratulated NCMM staff for their contribution to the Commission’s international recognition.
Tinubu Tasks NCMM With Sustaining Heritage Recovery
President Tinubu urged the NCMM to sustain its efforts to recover Nigeria’s cultural property.
He also called for continued improvements across museums nationwide.
Additionally, he encouraged the Commission to make Nigeria’s history more accessible to young Nigerians.
The President said stronger heritage institutions can help preserve Nigeria’s identity for future generations.
