The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) has refuted claims by representatives of the Edo State Government alleging that the MOWAA Institute building cost N4.1 billion.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the organisation said the figure being circulated is drawn from a September 2022 Bill of Quantities that covered only a portion of the civil works and excluded a wide range of essential components.

According to MOWAA, the 2022 document does not account for mechanical and electrical installations, specialised equipment, interior fit-out, and furnishing.

The organisation added that substantial currency devaluation during the construction period almost doubled the overall Naira cost of the project.

MOWAA further noted that key upgrades—such as enhanced climate-control, energy, and security systems—were introduced after the 2022 estimates were prepared. Additional architectural, engineering, and quantity-surveying fees, as well as changes to the civil engineering scope, were also not reflected in the earlier document.

“As such, the total cost of building and fitting out the MOWAA Institute stands at approximately N22 billion,” the statement said. “All of these costs can be independently verified through invoices, quantity-surveyor reports, and other documentary evidence, all of which are available for inspection.”

The organisation emphasised that the development of the Institute was funded through major contributions from international donors, including the German Government, members of MOWAA’s Board of Directors, leading global foundations, and Nigerian corporate and individual philanthropists.

Some of these donors, MOWAA noted, contributed amounts exceeding the Edo State Government’s support, yet none have laid claim to ownership of the building or raised concerns regarding financial transparency.

MOWAA reiterated its commitment to “the highest levels of corporate governance and transparency” and expressed gratitude to its supporters for standing firm during the ongoing dispute.

The organisation added that it remains ready to address all queries from the Edo State Government and to work collaboratively to advance what it describes as a project capable of boosting economic growth, improving livelihoods, and creating jobs across Edo State. (Nigerian Tribune)