Holloway assumed office at a time when several restitution claims involving Nigerian artefacts had remained unresolved for years.
His tenure has since been marked by two significant repatriation developments. The Netherlands returned 119 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria in June 2025, while Cambridge transferred ownership of 116 Benin artefacts to Nigeria in February 2026, following years of discussions.
Pictures NCMM
TIME’s citation recognised Holloway’s contribution to the return of more than 200 looted artefacts and efforts to address ownership questions that had complicated restitution negotiations.
The Cambridge agreement was particularly significant because it followed nearly a decade of discussions and involved the transfer of ownership of the artefacts. Holloway described the agreement as a precedent that could encourage other institutions holding Nigerian artefacts to reconsider their positions on restitution.
The developments also placed renewed attention on the pace of Nigeria’s recent cultural diplomacy.
Previous restitution efforts have involved lengthy negotiations between governments and institutions. Germany, for instance, reached an agreement with Nigeria in 2021 concerning the return of more than 1,000 Benin Bronzes. Against that broader history, the conclusion of two major restitution arrangements during Holloway’s first two years in office has contributed to the visibility of his tenure.
His engagement has also extended beyond Europe. Holloway has pursued cultural and diplomatic contacts with institutions and officials in the United States, including discussions around opportunities for greater cooperation with American museums.
