The House of Representatives on Tuesday moved to investigate the establishment, funding, and governance structure of the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo State.
This followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Esosa Iyawe and six others, who argued that the museum—created to house and research West African cultural heritage and repatriated Benin artefacts—may be subject to undue foreign or private influence.
Iyawe noted that although MOWAA has attracted major financial and technical backing from international donors and former custodians of Benin bronzes, concerns have emerged about its ownership structure, legal status, and the transparency of donor agreements. Lawmakers also questioned the level of consultation with key stakeholders, including the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), the Federal Government, the Oba of Benin, and local communities.
Hon. Billy Osawaru warned that mismanaging the initiative could harm Nigeria’s global cultural reputation and hinder government efforts to grow the creative economy.
The House resolved to set up an ad-hoc committee to examine funding sources, land allocations, tax provisions, donor involvement, and protections for Nigeria’s cultural sovereignty. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks.
