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The sculptures, prized for their beauty and technical artistry, are of spiritual and historical significance for the people from that part of Nigeria.
Their theft still remains a point of pain for the descendants of those from the ancient Benin kingdom.
This move may increase pressure on other institutions to return the Benin Bronzes, especially the British Museum, which has over 900 artefacts.
Protests and demonstrations have taken place outside the British Museum as part of a campaign for their return.
However, an act of parliament prevents the British Museum from sending them back.
For many in Nigeria, the Benin Bronzes are a potent reminder of the violence of colonialism.
The NCMM has issued formal repatriation requests to museums across the world.
Nigeria said it plans to open the Edo Museum of West African Art in Benin City in 2026, designed by the British-Ghanaian architect Sir David Adjaye, to house the largest collection of Benin Bronzes ever assembled.
