The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Nigeria, has postponed the public opening events for its inaugural contemporary exhibition, “Nigeria Imaginary: Homecoming”. The institution announced the decision was a “difficult but necessary” one, made in light of recent protests.
According to the museum, the announcement follows local protests concerning “broader regional development projects, and misconceptions about MOWAA’s vision and role within Benin City’s cultural landscape”. MOWAA stated it is working with local and national decision-makers to ensure the museum can continue to offer a “safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for all visitors”.
While public access is paused, the MOWAA Institute’s ongoing programmes in research, art conservation, education, and professional training remain fully active.
Presidential Committee Formed for Resolution
In response to the situation, MOWAA welcomed the appointment by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of a high-level Presidential committee. The committee’s mandate is to develop a comprehensive framework for the “permanent resolution of all related matters through dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to constitutional provisions”.
The committee is chaired by the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa. Its membership includes representatives from the Presidency, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, the National Council for Arts and Culture, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Edo State Government, and international partners, including German and French embassy representatives.
Institutional Vision and Dialogue
MOWAA leadership affirmed its respect for local authorities. Phillip Ihenacho, Director of MOWAA, stated: “MOWAA holds His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II (CFR), the Oba of Benin, in the highest esteem and continues to uphold deep respect for the Benin Throne”. Ihenacho added, “We believe this moment can pave the way to renewed dialogue, engagement and understanding, so that together we can realise the full potential of what MOWAA can represent for Nigeria and Africa at large”.
Ore Disu, Director of the MOWAA Institute, reinforced the museum’s objective: “We set out to demonstrate that it’s possible to build world-class conservation facilities, research and exhibition spaces right here in Nigeria. We’ve shown that African stories can be told on our own terms”.
Reflecting on the situation, Minister Musawa commented, “Cultural institutions are pillars of our national identity and must be protected through collaborative approaches that respect both traditional custodianship and modern institutional structures”.
MOWAA expressed that it is “positive that the continuation of these dialogues will clarify the institution’s intentions to all”. The museum aims to serve its local communities, national stakeholders, and international visitors in a “transparent, accountable and culturally respectful manner”.
Further updates on the new public opening date for “Nigeria Imaginary: Homecoming” will be shared in the coming weeks.
