The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) is a transformative cultural institution under development in Benin City, Nigeria. Designed by renowned architect Sir David Adjaye, the museum aims to redefine the global narrative surrounding African art, heritage, and restitution.

Vision and Mission

MOWAA is dedicated to preserving and celebrating West African arts and culture. The museum seeks to create a self-sustaining ecosystem in West Africa for heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary arts, fostering deep connections between contemporary arts and the rich cultural heritage of West Africa.

Architectural Design

The museum's design draws inspiration from historical architectural typologies, establishing its own courtyard in the form of a public garden, exhibiting a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity . The first building, the MOWAA Institute, opened on November 4, 2024. Designed by Adjaye Associates, the Institute aims to fill an urgent need in the region for training in archaeology, conservation, heritage management, and museum practice.

Collections and Repatriation

MOWAA is set to house over 300 items on loan from European museums, including the return of Benin Bronzes. The Metropolitan Museum of Art has agreed to repatriate two Benin Bronzes to be shown in the museum.

Cultural District and Community Impact

The museum is part of a larger 20-acre Creative District in Benin City, developed in collaboration with Adjaye Associates. The district aims to establish a comprehensive environment dedicated to the artistic and cultural realms of the past, present, and future, promoting Edo State's vision of re-establishing Benin City as the arts and culture capital of West Africa.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the historic center of Benin City, the museum is strategically located near the palace of the Oba, the traditional ruler of the Edo people. The museum's proximity to the Oba's palace underscores its deep-rooted connection to the region's heritage and cultural significance.