The Netherlands returned 119 Benin Bronzes—human and animal figures, plaques, and regalia—looted in 1897 by British forces. This significant repatriation, the largest single return to date, fulfills a Nigerian request and follows similar actions by museums in London and Rhode Island. The artifacts, primarily from Leiden’s museum, were returned in Edo State with the Oba Ewuare II calling it a “divine intervention.” The Dutch government’s commitment to returning colonial-era artifacts continues, with Nigeria actively pursuing the recovery of further looted items.
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Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria is facing widespread condemnation for a policy requiring female students to undergo physical checks for bras before exams. A viral video depicts female staff touching students’ chests to enforce the dress code, which a student leader defended as maintaining a distraction-free environment, though acknowledging the need for alternative enforcement methods. Critics, including a human rights group, have condemned the practice as a violation of students’ rights and likened it to sexual assault. The university’s student union president stated the policy aims for a respectful environment, but is exploring alternative approaches to enforcing modesty guidelines.
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In Nigeria’s Borno state, drastic cuts to USAID funding have severely impacted humanitarian efforts, leading to the deaths of children suffering from malnutrition. The termination of programs providing therapeutic food, like those run by Mercy Corps, has left organizations overwhelmed and unable to meet the needs of the displaced population. This has resulted in increased mortality rates among malnourished children and a halt to essential shelter construction for those escaping conflict. The crisis extends beyond Nigeria, affecting numerous other countries and jeopardizing essential health services. Without increased funding from other sources, the consequences will be devastating.
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John Q. Hosedrinker