Lagos: It’s a big week for art in Nigeria. Lagos hosts the Contemporary Fair this weekend, while Benin City prepares for the opening of the long-awaited Museum of West African Art. The multi-million-euro project, backed by France, Germany, the Getty Foundation, and the British Museum, was meant to house the famed Benin Bronzes, looted by British forces in 1897 – but that plan has sparked controversy. Marie-Cécile Zinsou, president of the Zinsou Foundation, explains why.

According to France24.com, the Museum of West African Art is set to become a cultural landmark, designed to showcase the rich artistic heritage of the region. However, the inclusion of the Benin Bronzes, which have been at the center of restitution debates, has raised questions about cultural ownership and the legacy of colonialism.

The controversy has not dampened the enthusiasm surrounding the Contemporary Fair in Lagos, which brings together artists and collectors from across the globe. The event highlights the growing global interest in African art, as collectors and institutions seek to diversify their collections with pieces that reflect the continent’s vibrant cultures and histories.

Marie-Cécile Zinsou emphasized the importance of such events in promoting African art on the world stage. She noted the role of major international backers in supporting the Museum of West African Art, suggesting a significant shift in how African art is perceived and valued worldwide.