A new exhibit showcases the art of an ancient African kingdom in Nigeria. Some Chicago immigrants hope the international art community will return the artifacts someday. The exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago features several centuries of art in ivovy, bronze and coral from the ancient kingdom of Benin. Chicagoan Idris Alohan is from Benin City.

ALOHAN: It brings great joy to me. Not only to me, to all the entire Benins, to know our artifacts (are) now being showcased all over the world.

But Alohan says too much Benin art is in museums around the world, instead of in Africa. He eventually wants to see these works returned. Visiting royalty from Benin appealed to the international arts community for support this week while visiting Chicago. A Nigerian museum official says the country is holding diplomatic talks with Britain and other countries.

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