By Prisca Sam-Duru

The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) has indefinitely postponed the public opening of its inaugural contemporary exhibition, “Nigeria Imaginary: Homecoming,” citing recent protests and a commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all visitors.

The difficult decision, announced November 14, 2025, comes as the federal government steps in to address the underlying tensions through high-level dialogue.

The postponement highlights the ongoing delicate balance between Nigeria’s sovereign cultural interests and its international partnerships, particularly concerning historical artifacts and cultural heritage in Benin City.

Following the disruption, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, established a high-level Presidential Committee. Chaired by the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, the committee’s mandate is to develop a comprehensive framework for permanent resolution through dialogue, mutual respect, and constitutional adherence.

The committee includes a broad range of stakeholders, notably representatives from the Presidency, the the National Council for Arts and Culture, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, the Edo State Government, the Palace of the Oba of Benin, and international partners, including the German and French embassies.

Commenting on the development, Minister Musawa stated, “Cultural institutions are pillars of our national identity and must be protected through collaborative approaches that respect both traditional custodianship and modern institutional structures.”

While public access is halted, MOWAA confirmed that the vital work of the MOWAA Institute, encompassing research, art conservation, education and professional training, remains fully active.

MOWAA further stressed that it remains dedicated to balancing Nigeria’s important sovereign cultural interests with international partnerships and diplomatic considerations, to the benefit of its core audiences. 

“MOWAA’s long-term vision remains resolute in its commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of creatives, artists and cultural thought leaders in Benin City, Nigeria and across West Africa. It is proud to work in alignment with other stakeholders and cultural institutions across the region, together galvanising the expansion of Benin City as a centre for cultural and artistic heritage; preserving an important past, whilst catalyzing a future that asserts the primacy of African and diasporic cultural production on its own terms.

“MOWAA is positive that the continuation of these dialogues will clarify the institution’s intentions to all, ensuring the Museum can soon welcome audiences to a fully operational, world-class center which serves its core audiences—local communities, national stakeholders and international visitors—in a transparent, accountable and culturally respectful manner,” MOWAA stated.

Also speaking, Director of MOWAA, Phillip Ihenacho, stressed the institution’s commitment to cooperation. “We remain dedicated to engaging respectfully and collectively to the contribution of the preservation and advancement of Benin City’s rich cultural legacy, and its people. This includes working together with other stakeholders, leaders and cultural institutions here to bolster the city’s economic development and strengthen its ambitions as a cultural capital for the region. As such, 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. 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.”

“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, and I’m incredibly proud and grateful for what we’ve accomplished so far. This is a gift for Black and African people everywhere; for people today and future generations. We have deep respect for the monarch and people of Benin City. Over the last four years have sought to build inclusive practices that bring benefit to the city, its schools, universities and families. We wish to deepen and improve on this, as we work towards welcoming others through our doors,” Ore Disu, Director of MOWAA Institute said.

Further updates on the new public opening date for “Nigeria Imaginary: Homecoming” are expected in the coming weeks.