The Federal Republic of Germany has signalled renewed commitment to deepening cultural and economic ties with Edo State following a high-level meeting between the Consul-General of Germany and the Edo State Government in Benin City.
The Edo State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Chris Okaeben, on Tuesday received the Consul-General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Daniel Krull, in what both parties described as a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening collaboration in culture, heritage preservation, and youth development.
Welcoming the German diplomat, Okaeben commended Germany’s longstanding cultural diplomacy and support for Edo’s creative ecosystem. He noted that Edo’s rich heritage, from its globally celebrated bronze works to its vibrant festivals and performing arts , has continued to attract international attention and partnerships.
“The rich cultural heritage of Edo State, including its vibrant arts, music and festivals, has not only showcased our unique identity but also attracted German interest, paving the way for mutually beneficial partnerships,” the Commissioner said.
MOWAA and Cultural Infrastructure
A major highlight of the discussion was the progress surrounding the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) project in Benin City. Okaeben disclosed that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is working to address issues relating to the development of the museum complex.
He expressed appreciation to the German government and other international partners for their financial and technical support, particularly towards the Archaeological Pavilion component of the project.
“As a government, we are working to resolve the issues surrounding the Museum of West African Art and are grateful for Germany’s financial contributions to the Archaeological Pavilion,” he stated.
The MOWAA initiative is widely regarded as a landmark cultural infrastructure project designed to reposition Benin City as a global hub for African art, research, and heritage tourism.
EDOFEST and Royal Anniversary
The Commissioner also briefed the Consul-General on forthcoming landmark cultural events in the state, including Edo at 35 celebrations, the Edo Festival (EDOFEST), and the 10th coronation anniversary of the Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II.
Okaeben extended a formal invitation to the German government to participate in the events, describing EDOFEST as a platform that will showcase Edo’s cultural wealth to the global community.
“Let me use this opportunity to invite Mr. Krull to attend EDOFEST, promising a memorable cultural experience that will highlight Edo State’s rich heritage,” he said.
Youth Training and Creative Economy
Beyond culture and festivals, the meeting focused on practical collaboration in youth empowerment and skills development. The Commissioner called for increased partnership in training young talents in film production, bronze casting, metal works, fine arts, woodworks, cultural exchange programmes and vocational training.
He acknowledged previous support provided through the German development agency GIZ, particularly in film production training initiatives.
“We appreciate the earlier opportunities provided by Germany through the GIZ on film production and we will continue to ask for more from the German government,” Okaeben added.
Germany’s Position
Speaking earlier, Krull explained that his visit formed part of efforts to formally introduce himself and build relationships with Edo State since assuming office last year.
“As a career diplomat, I have heard and read a lot about the Benin Kingdom, now Edo State , with Benin City as its capital, known for its rich and vibrant history,” he said.
He noted that the siting of the Archaeological Pavilion of MOWAA in Benin City underscores the city’s historical and artistic significance in West Africa.
Krull emphasised that strengthening cultural ties remains central to Germany’s engagement strategy, describing Edo as a land of opportunity with vast potential in the creative and tourism sectors.
He pledged Germany’s continued support for Nigeria’s creative industry and broader economic development efforts.
Other officials present at the meeting included the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Iryn Omorogiuwa, Esq.; and the Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy, Mr. Harrison Ehizoba.
The engagement is seen as part of broader international efforts to leverage culture as a tool for diplomacy, economic growth, and youth empowerment in Edo State.
2026-03-05