In a decisive response to recent developments at the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin city, President Bola Ahmed 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.
Director Press, Federal Ministry of Art culture Tourism and Creative Economy, Chindaya Ahmadu, said on Wednesday that this 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 Composition of the Committee, which is to be chaired by Minister of Art, culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, comprises distinguished stakeholders representing critical national and international interests.
Ahmadu said the composition reflects President Tinubu’s recognition of the complex historical cultural and diplomatic dimensions of this matter.
Members of the Presidential Committee include:
1Minister of Art, culture Tourism and Creative Economy (Chairperson)
2 Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art culture Tourism and Creative
3 Representative of the Presidency
4 Director International Cultural Relations
5 Special Assistant to the President on Creativity
6 Director General National Council for Art and culture
7 Representative, Palace of the Oba of Benin
8 Representative, Edo State Government
9 Representative, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
10 Representative, German Embassy
11 Representative, French Embassy
12 Senator Representing Edo South
13 Representative, National Commission for Museum and Monuments
14 Representative, Museum of West African Art MOWAA
15 Legal Adviser, Federal Ministry of Art culture Tourism and Creative Economy.
According to him, the mandate of the Committee is mandated to:
. Conduct extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders
. Undertake vigorous fact finding on all pertinent issues: and
. Formulate actionable recommendations that balance Nigeria’s sovereign cultural interests with international partnership and diplomatic considerations.
