What happened at the MOWAA museum in Benin City, Nigeria?

The pre-opening event for the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) in Benin City, Nigeria was disrupted by around 20 protesters, some armed with wooden bats, who caused minor damage in the museum courtyard.

Why was the MOWAA museum launch postponed?

The launch of the MOWAA museum, which was meant to showcase West African art with support from foreign governments, was postponed indefinitely after the disruption by protesters. Tensions between the former state governor and the current traditional ruler over control of the museum led to the incident.

What is the status of the MOWAA museum now?

The official opening of the MOWAA museum, originally scheduled for November 7th, 2025, has been postponed indefinitely following the disruption by protesters. Authorities are now working to understand the circumstances and determine an appropriate response.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Protesters Disrupt Pre-Opening of West African Art Museum in Nigeria

Protesters Disrupt Pre-Opening of West African Art Museum in Nigeria

10 Nov

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Summary

Museum launch postponed after protesters vandalized courtyard
Museum aimed to display West African art, backed by foreign governments
Tensions between former governor and current ruler over control of museum

Protesters Disrupt Pre-Opening of West African Art Museum in Nigeria

In a setback for the cultural preservation efforts in Nigeria, the planned opening of the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) in Benin City has been postponed indefinitely. The museum, launched five years ago by Nigerian businessman Phillip Ihenacho, was scheduled to officially open this past Tuesday, November 7th.

However, the launch was disrupted on Sunday when around 20 men, some armed with wooden bats, stormed into the museum courtyard during a private pre-opening event for donors and industry professionals. The protesters, whose exact demands remain unclear, caused minor damage before the guests were escorted away to a nearby hotel.

The MOWAA was established with the support of Nigeria's former Edo State governor, and has also received financing from the French, German, and British governments, as well as the British Museum and private donors. It was set to house exhibition spaces, archives, and host residencies for West African artists and craftspeople.