The Germany has expressed renewed interest in strengthening cultural and economic cooperation with Edo State following a high-level meeting between the Consul-General of Germany and officials of 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 sides described as a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening collaboration in culture, heritage preservation and youth development.
Welcoming the German diplomat, Okaeben praised Germany’s longstanding cultural diplomacy and its continued support for Edo State’s creative sector. He noted that Edo’s heritage — from its globally recognised bronze artworks to its festivals and performing arts — continues to attract international 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.
A key aspect of the discussions centred on progress surrounding the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) project in Benin City. Okaeben disclosed that the administration of Monday Okpebholo is working to address issues relating to the development of the museum complex.
He also thanked the German government and other international partners for their financial and technical contributions, particularly to 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 major cultural infrastructure project expected to position Benin City as a global centre for African art, research and heritage tourism.
During the meeting, the commissioner also informed the German delegation about upcoming cultural events in the state, including the Edo at 35 celebrations, the Edo Festival (EDOFEST) and the 10th coronation anniversary of the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II.
He extended a formal invitation to the German government to participate in the events, describing EDOFEST as a platform to showcase Edo State’s cultural heritage 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.
The meeting also focused on opportunities for collaboration in youth empowerment and skills development within the creative industry. Okaeben called for stronger partnerships in training young talents in film production, bronze casting, metal works, fine arts, woodwork and cultural exchange programmes.
He acknowledged earlier support provided through the German development agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), particularly in film production training.
“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.
Speaking earlier, Krull explained that his visit formed part of efforts to formally introduce himself and strengthen diplomatic engagement 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.
Krull noted that the location of the Archaeological Pavilion of MOWAA in Benin City highlights the city’s historical and artistic importance in West Africa. He added that strengthening cultural ties remains central to Germany’s engagement strategy, describing Edo State as a place with significant opportunities in the creative and tourism sectors.
Other officials present at the meeting included the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Cyril Adams Oshiomhole; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Iryn Omorogiuwa; and the Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy, Harrison Ehizoba.
The meeting is viewed as part of broader international efforts to use culture as a tool for diplomacy, economic growth and youth empowerment in Edo State.
