Indecisive a response to recent developments at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo State, President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate constitution of a high-level Presidential Committee to develop a comprehensive framework for the permanent resolution of all related matters.
A statement signed by Chindaya Ahmadu, Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, said the presidential intervention underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s cultural patrimony while ensuring that all issues are addressed through dialogue, mutual respect, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions.
The committee is chaired by the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, and comprises distinguished stakeholders representing critical national and international interests.
The ministry noted that the composition reflects President Tinubu’s recognition of the complex historical, cultural, and diplomatic dimensions of this matter.
Members of the Presidential Committee include:
Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy – Chairperson
Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy
Director, International Cultural Relations
Special Assistant to the President on Creativity
Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture
Representative, Palace of the Oba of Benin
Representative, Edo State Government
Representative, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Representative, German Embassy
Representative, French Embassy
Senator Representing Edo South
Representative, National Commission for Museums and Monuments
Representative, Museum of West African Art (MOWAA)
Legal Adviser, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy
Their mandate is to conduct extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, undertake rigorous fact-finding on all pertinent issues, and formulate actionable recommendations that balance Nigeria’s sovereign cultural interests with international partnerships and diplomatic considerations.
According to the Minister, “This Presidential intervention demonstrates our unwavering dedication to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through peaceful means and within the established legal framework. Cultural institutions are pillars of our national identity and must be protected through collaborative approaches that reflect both traditional custodianship and modern institutional structures.”
The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations directly to President Bola Tinubu to ensure the swift implementation of sustainable solutions that uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s cultural ecosystem.
