Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has proclaimed that the investments made in the creative, arts, and culture sectors over the past eight years have successfully transformed Edo into a premier centre for excellence, positioning it as the nucleus of arts, culture, and tourism in Africa.
Obaseki made this declaration during the official launch of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) Institute and Campus in Benin City, where he was joined by former governors Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State and Donald Duke of Cross River State, along with other notable figures.
The event also marked the commissioning of the Edo Film Project Residence (Edonimose), the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub Production Centre, and a visit to the Radisson Hotel Project.
Accompanied by Edo State’s Deputy Governor Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, Chief of Staff Osaigbovo Iyoha, PDP governorship candidate Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and PDP chairman Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Obaseki underscored the employment and investment opportunities presented by MOWAA, which is integral to the state’s cultural district aimed at enhancing tourism and driving economic development.
Reflecting on his administration’s milestones, Obaseki remarked, “Eight years ago, we launched a vision to regenerate, restore, and reform Edo, prioritizing culture in our renaissance efforts. Edo boasts an unmatched heritage in West Africa, yet its legacy faced jeopardy due to inadequate preservation.”
He explained that the initiative began six years ago in partnership with the Benin Dialogue Group to protect and promote Edo’s rich cultural heritage.
In response to critics who questioned the prioritization of a museum over healthcare facilities, Obaseki clarified, “We have constructed both a museum and a new, expanded hospital in Benin City. The cultural district, inclusive of the Edo Film Project Residence, is dedicated to uplifting our artists and honouring our culture.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to fostering creativity and the arts, stating, “Edo has emerged as Nigeria’s creative hub, with facilities like the Edo State Film Post Production Center enabling artists to produce and finalize their works locally.” He called on the youth to safeguard the advancements achieved over the last eight years.
Former governors Ihedioha and Duke praised Obaseki’s leadership, with Ihedioha acknowledging, “Your transformative efforts have established Edo as a benchmark for progress in energy, education, arts, and tourism. Edo now generates more power than any other state, and your legacy in culture and development is firmly in place.”
