Hon. Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Speaks on Disturbance at Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), Benin City

The Honourable Minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, of The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, says, she has received with deep concern reports of disturbances at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City and is closely monitoring developments.

"Our cultural institutions are custodians of Nigeria’s history, identity and collective memory. They are spaces for learning, dialogue and reconciliation. The reported disruption at MOWAA not only endangers a treasured cultural asset but also threatens the peaceful environment necessary for cultural exchange and the preservation of our artistic patrimony for future generations," said the Minister.

Consequently, the Honourable Minister disclosed that she has briefed the Presidency on this matter, which is receiving attention at the highest levels of government. "We are in active consultation with the Edo State Government, security agencies and all relevant stakeholders to establish a full understanding of the circumstances and to ensure an appropriate and proportionate response."

The Constitution, she said, guarantees fundamental freedoms; it also requires that those freedoms be exercised responsibly. No right extends to the destruction or desecration of national cultural assets. We urge all parties to refrain from actions that escalate tensions. Disputes must be resolved through constructive dialogue, lawful channels and mutual respect rather than through destructive conduct.

"To the MOWAA community and cultural stakeholders across the world, the Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the spaces where our heritage is preserved and celebrated. We will take the necessary measures to safeguard these institutions and to uphold the rule of law.

"This episode should strengthen our resolve that culture flourishes only in an environment of peace, respect and justice. Let us recommit to safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural institutions and to resolving our differences through dialogue and mutual respect for the common good," she added.