Nigeria Calls for Stronger Support in Repatriation Efforts
© telegram sputnik_africa
/ Subscribe
Nigeria Calls for Stronger Support in Repatriation Efforts
The Edo State Government has urged continued support for its push to repatriate looted Benin artworks, highlighting culture’s role in reclaiming heritage, local media reported.
Speaking at the Benin City premiere of Osamede — a film inspired by the 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom — Dr. Munirat Lecky, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism and Creative Economy, described the movie as a “powerful example of cultural preservation through entertainment.”
“It is important for sharing our story. The world is talking today about the Benin Moat and the repatriation of the bronzes, so it is timely that this movie is coming out now,” she was quoted as saying.
Lecky emphasized that Osamede demonstrates how authentic storytelling can drive tourism and youth engagement, adding that its production boosted local economies in Ososo and Fugar through jobs and vendor participation.
Executive Producer Lilian Olubi called the film an “act of restitution” for the Benin people, while lead actress Ivie Okujaye Egboh said performing in Benin was deeply meaningful:
“Playing a Benin warrior in the actual kingdom... I knew we had honored their ancestors.”
Director James Omokwe noted the team’s collaboration with Benin historians to ensure accuracy, and actor William Benson described the audience’s reaction as “pride reflected back at them.”
Osamede hits Nigerian cinemas on October 17, with international releases following in the UK (October 31) and North America (November 7).
Subscribe to @sputnik_africa
Sputnik Africa | X
The Edo State Government has urged continued support for its push to repatriate looted Benin artworks, highlighting culture’s role in reclaiming heritage, local media reported.
Speaking at the Benin City premiere of Osamede — a film inspired by the 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom — Dr. Munirat Lecky, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism and Creative Economy, described the movie as a “powerful example of cultural preservation through entertainment.”
“It is important for sharing our story. The world is talking today about the Benin Moat and the repatriation of the bronzes, so it is timely that this movie is coming out now,” she was quoted as saying.
Lecky emphasized that Osamede demonstrates how authentic storytelling can drive tourism and youth engagement, adding that its production boosted local economies in Ososo and Fugar through jobs and vendor participation.
Executive Producer Lilian Olubi called the film an “act of restitution” for the Benin people, while lead actress Ivie Okujaye Egboh said performing in Benin was deeply meaningful:
“Playing a Benin warrior in the actual kingdom... I knew we had honored their ancestors.”
Director James Omokwe noted the team’s collaboration with Benin historians to ensure accuracy, and actor William Benson described the audience’s reaction as “pride reflected back at them.”
Osamede hits Nigerian cinemas on October 17, with international releases following in the UK (October 31) and North America (November 7).
Subscribe to @sputnik_africa
Sputnik Africa | X
