Some of the most important artifacts were taken away from what is now modern-day Nigeria during the colonial era.

But they may soon be on their way back.

The Benin Bronzes, consisting of hundreds of pieces of works dating back several centuries, were plundered from the palace of the Oba of Benin, in South West Nigeria, by British forces in 1897 during a punitive expedition.

The works are spread around museums in Europe and the United States.

For several decades the Nigerian government and the Oba of Benin's Palace have been requesting the return of the artifacts.

Now a deal is being worked out with some European museums for their return.

Sam Olukoya reports from Benin city in Nigeria.