Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State stated on Monday that investments in the state’s creative, arts, and culture sectors over the last eight years have transformed Edo into a center of excellence, establishing it as Africa’s arts, culture, and tourism hub.
Obaseki made this statement while leading former governors Emeka Ihedioha (Imo) and Donald Duke (Cross River), alongside other dignitaries, to the official unveiling of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) Institute and Campus in Benin City, Edo State.
They also commissioned the Edo Film Project Residence (Edonimose), the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub Production Centre, and inspected the Radisson Hotel Project.
Accompanied by the Edo State Deputy Governor Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, Chief of Staff Osaigbovo Iyoha, Edo PDP governorship candidate Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and PDP chairman Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Obaseki emphasized the employment and investment potential of MOWAA as part of the state’s cultural district, which aims to drive tourism and economic growth.
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Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Obaseki said, “Eight years ago, we initiated a plan to regenerate, restore, and reform Edo, making culture a priority for our renaissance.
Edo’s heritage is unparalleled in West Africa, yet its legacy was at risk due to a lack of preservation.” He noted that the project began six years ago in collaboration with the Benin Dialogue Group to safeguard and showcase Edo’s cultural heritage.
Responding to critics who questioned the construction of a museum over a hospital, Obaseki clarified, “We built a museum and also a new, larger hospital in Benin City.
The cultural district, including the Edo Film Project Residence, supports our artists and celebrates our culture.”
The governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to creativity and the arts. “Edo is now the hub of creativity in Nigeria, with facilities like the Edo State Film Post Production Center that enable artists to produce and complete their works locally,” he said, urging youth to protect the state’s progress over the past eight years.
Former governors Ihedioha and Duke praised Obaseki’s leadership. Ihedioha commended him, saying, “Your transformative work has made Edo a model of progress, from energy and education to arts and tourism. Edo now generates more power than any other state, and your legacy in culture and development is secure.”
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