Oba Ewuare II at 10: Artefact recovery, youth empowerment, development top reign’s milestones

PRINCESS OSE ALUEDE

As Oba Ewuare II marks 10 years on the throne of the Benin Kingdom, his reign has drawn attention to cultural heritage preservation, youth empowerment, indigenous education and ambitious community development projects.

Since his coronation on October 20, 2016, the monarch has advocated the recovery of Benin artefacts taken during the British invasion of 1897, promoted the preservation of Edo language and Benin history, and supported skills-acquisition initiatives for young people.

However, questions remain about the implementation and long-term impact of some initiatives associated with his reign.

Artefact recovery gains momentum

The restitution of Benin artefacts looted during the 1897 British invasion remains one of the most prominent cultural issues associated with the monarch’s reign.

Thousands of objects were taken from the kingdom and subsequently dispersed among museums and private collections worldwide.

Oba Ewuare II has consistently advocated their return, drawing international attention to the cultural and historical significance of the objects.

In June 2025, the Netherlands returned 119 Benin artefacts to Nigeria. The collection included plaques, royal regalia, human and animal figures, and a bell.

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The restitution represented a significant development in efforts to recover the kingdom’s dispersed heritage.

The next challenge is ensuring that returned objects are properly preserved, made accessible for public education and used to deepen younger generations’ understanding of Benin history.

Push for Edo language in schools

At his coronation, the monarch called for Edo language and Benin history to be incorporated into school curricula, stressing the importance of indigenous language and cultural identity.

He also encouraged families and communities to preserve the language by speaking it at home and in everyday interactions.

Although the advocacy underscores the importance of cultural education, the extent to which the specific proposals have been implemented across schools requires confirmation from relevant education authorities.

Youth empowerment initiatives

Youth development has also featured among initiatives associated with the reign.

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In May 2018, the Oba Ewuare II Foundation partnered with the National Directorate of Employment to organise a skills-acquisition programme for 50 youths in Edo State, including returnees from Libya.

According to a report by Vanguard, participants received training in the production of liquid soap, baby powder, hair cream, baby oil and hair oil.

The programme sought to equip participants with practical skills that could support self-employment and income generation.

Satellite town project awaits further assessment

Another development initiative is the Oba Ewuare II Satellite Town project at Ugoneki in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.

Announced in 2018, the project was envisioned as a planned community along the Benin–Agbor corridor, with proposed facilities including roads, electricity, water supply, security infrastructure, schools and a market.

The project is described as ongoing in information provided for this report. Details on completed facilities, the current construction phase and the implementation timeline would help establish its present status and progress.

Anniversary celebrates Benin traditions

The tenth-anniversary celebrations have also provided a platform for promoting the kingdom’s cultural heritage.

According to the Royal Palace of Benin’s published programme, activities run from October 4 to November 21, 2026, featuring cultural exhibitions, sporting events, traditional gatherings and historical commemorations.

A cultural festival was held on October 10, while traditional wrestling and football activities also featured in the programme.

An exhibition of returned artefacts is scheduled for November 19–21 at the National Museum in Benin City, providing an opportunity for public engagement with objects connected to the kingdom’s history.

The anniversary programme also included a memorial lecture at the University of Benin on October 12 in honour of Oba Erediauwa, the late monarch and father of Oba Ewuare II.

The lecture brought together members of the royal family, university officials and other dignitaries to reflect on the former ruler’s legacy.

Beyond the celebrations

As the Benin Kingdom celebrates a decade of Oba Ewuare II’s reign, the initiatives associated with his leadership reflect a continuing emphasis on cultural preservation, youth development and community advancement.

Yet, the lasting measure of progress will depend on tangible outcomes: the continued recovery and preservation of artefacts, stronger cultural education, sustainable opportunities for young people and the delivery of essential infrastructure.