Tinubu sets up 15-man committee to resolve MOWAA issues

In response to recent developments at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has directed the immediate formation of a high-level Presidential committee to develop a permanent framework for resolving all related matters. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s cultural heritage while ensuring issues […]

In response to recent developments at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has directed the immediate formation of a high-level Presidential committee to develop a permanent framework for resolving all related matters.

The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s cultural heritage while ensuring issues are addressed through dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to the constitution.

It will be recalled that protesters recently targeted the newly established multi-million-dollar museum, leading to the postponement of its scheduled opening ceremony. Videos circulated online showed a group confronting and ordering foreign guests to leave the museum premises.

The protest reportedly stemmed from grievances over the museum’s name and management structure, with demonstrators expressing that it should have been designated the “Benin Royal Museum” and placed under the direct authority of the Oba of Benin.

MOWAA, which houses state-of-the-art preservation and restoration facilities, was conceived in part as a home for the historic Benin Bronzes—artefacts looted from the ancient Benin Kingdom by British soldiers in the 19th century.

The committee is chaired by Hon. Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy. Its membership includes representatives from the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Edo State Government, National Council for Arts and Culture, National Commission for Museums and Monuments, as well as international partners from the German and French embassies. The composition reflects the complex historical, cultural, and diplomatic aspects of the matter.

The committee is tasked with consulting stakeholders, conducting thorough fact-finding, and producing actionable recommendations that balance Nigeria’s cultural sovereignty with international partnerships and diplomatic considerations.

Barr. Musawa said “This Presidential intervention demonstrates our unwavering dedication to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through peaceful means and within established legal framework. Cultural institutions are pillars of our national identity and must be protected through collaborative approaches that reflect both traditional custodianship and modern institutional structures.”

The committee will submit its findings directly to President Tinubu, ensuring swift implementation of sustainable solutions that safeguard Nigeria’s cultural ecosystem.