Prince Allen Ellison Applauds Efforts to Preserve and Return Nok Artifacts, Calls for Broader Repatriation of African Heritage
In light of the $90,000 grant signed between the United States Embassy in Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy to safeguard Nigeria’s ancient Nok artifacts, Prince Allen Ellison, Prince of the Nok Kingdom, has expressed his support for the initiative while emphasizing the need for a broader movement to recover other African artifacts taken during colonial rule.
The preservation project, led by the Wheyham Foundation in collaboration with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and Yale University Art Gallery, will focus on the documentation, protection, and promotion of Nok terracotta sculptures, which date back to 500 BCE in Kaduna State. These artifacts are among Africa’s most ancient cultural treasures, representing one of West Africa’s earliest civilizations. Speaking on the initiative, Prince Allen Ellison said: “This project is a significant step toward protecting and celebrating Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
The Nok terracottas are more than ancient sculptures; they represent a vital part of our shared history and identity. I commend all involved in ensuring that these treasures are preserved for future generations.” A Broader Mission: Repatriation of African Artifacts Prince Allen Ellison is leading efforts to recover other African artifacts currently held in foreign institutions, many of which were taken during British colonial rule.
He has set his sights on notable treasures, including: The Benin Bronzes: A collection of over 1,000 brass plaques and sculptures looted by British soldiers during the 1897 British Expedition to Benin City, currently housed in museums such as the British Museum and Pitt Rivers Museum in the UK.
The Ife Head: A bronze sculpture believed to be from the Ife Kingdom (12th–15th century), representing Yoruba royalty, which remains in European collections. Ethiopian Manuscripts and Tabots: Sacred texts and tabots (replicas of the Ark of the Covenant) taken during the 1868 Battle of Maqdala, now in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Kumasi Royal Regalia: Gold ornaments, ceremonial swords, and traditional stools taken from the Ashanti Kingdom (present-day Ghana) during British military expeditions. “These items were taken during moments of profound trauma for African communities,” Prince Ellison explained. “They are not merely artifacts; they are sacred symbols of our cultures and histories.
Their absence represents a void that must be filled.” Building Partnerships for Repatriation Prince Allen Ellison is working to build partnerships with African governments, cultural organizations, and global institutions to facilitate the return of these artifacts. His strategy involves diplomatic engagement, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with museums that have expressed a willingness to return looted items.
He is also advocating for the creation of state-of-the-art museums and cultural centers in Africa that can house and protect repatriated artifacts, ensuring that they remain accessible to the public while contributing to education and tourism development. “We must ensure that when these treasures come home, they are preserved and shared in ways that honor their historical significance,” Prince Ellison said. “I envision a future where every African nation can showcase its heritage proudly, telling its own story through its own artifacts.”
Prince Allen Ellison’s call for broader repatriation efforts is part of a growing movement across Africa to reclaim its cultural heritage. His vision extends beyond recovering individual pieces to strengthening Africa’s cultural infrastructure and empowering communities to celebrate their history on their own terms. “As we bring these treasures home, we reclaim our story,” he said. “We rebuild what was taken from us and inspire a new generation to embrace the richness of our shared heritage.”
For more info on Prince Allen Ellison, please visit his website at www.princeallenellison.com.
