The Museum for West African Arts (MOWAA) is now a property of the Edo State Government, according to the state's Arts, Culture and Creative Economy Commissioner, Chris Okaeben. The transfer was announced during a news conference in Benin. Okaeben revealed that the museum will be renamed Edo Museum for West African Arts (EMOWAA). This development marks a significant shift in the ownership and management of the museum.
The decision to transfer MOWAA to the Edo State Government was based on recommendations from a committee headed by former Governor Adams Oshiomhole. The committee suggested that MOWAA be handed over to the Oba of Benin. However, Okaeben emphasized that the state's government has taken possession of the museum. The transfer is seen as a strategic move to promote the state's cultural heritage.
The German government provided a grant to support the construction of MOWAA, while the Edo State Government provided the land and invested N3.8 billion without taking any equity. Okaeben highlighted that his interaction with the German Consulate in Nigeria confirmed the grant. The museum's construction cost approximately $25 million and received significant support from international governments and private institutions.
The museum has been a subject of controversy since its inception five years ago, sparking intense political tension over its ownership. Part of the original premise of MOWAA was to house the Benin bronzes, an ambition that was abandoned by the administration of Godwin Obaseki. Critics of MOWAA argue that the museum is a provocation to the Oba and a ploy to take the Benin bronzes away from him.
The Edo State Government is currently engaging with investors to develop cultural sites in the state. Okaeben stated that the investors will beautify the sites to make them attractive to tourists. One of the state's most important heritage sites, the Benin Moat, is among the sites earmarked for development. This move is expected to boost the state's tourism industry.
The pre-opening exhibition of MOWAA last November was marred by protests, leading to its suspension. Oba Ewuare II had planned to showcase the returned bronzes in a museum of his own, but none of the bronzes are yet on public display. The transfer of MOWAA to the Edo State Government may help resolve some of the controversies surrounding the museum.
The renaming of MOWAA to EMOWAA and its transfer to the Edo State Government reflect a broader effort to restore the state's traditional and cultural values. Okaeben credited Governor Monday Okpebholo with driving this initiative, which aims to promote the state's cultural heritage and attract tourists. The development is expected to have a positive impact on the state's cultural landscape.
Key points
- The Museum for West African Arts (MOWAA) has been transferred to the Edo State Government and will be renamed Edo Museum for West African Arts (EMOWAA).
- The transfer was based on recommendations from a committee headed by former Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
- The Edo State Government is engaging with investors to develop cultural sites, including the Benin Moat, to boost tourism.
