On Dec. 19, 2022, State Minister Roth travelled to Benin City, the historic place of origin of Benin bronzes in Edo State, Nigeria. Warmly welcomed by His Excellency, Governor Obaseki, who then hosted an extensive bilateral banquet with an opportunity for media public speeches by Roth and Obaseki. During State Minister Roth’s speech, she emphasized Germany’s interest in increased cultural cooperation, especially with the city of origin of the artworks. Governor Obaseki emphasized the exemplary function of DEU's commitment and strongly promoted the EMOWAA project (Edo Museum of West African Art), which he co-initiated. During his speech, he said, “The museum project is about reenacting the creative cultural instinct that is in our DNA, and to create an economy out of our rich culture.”

Also, notable, were Edo Minister of Culture Obaitan and State Secretary of Culture Omorogiuwa, who accompanied the delegation from landing to departure as requested to the construction site of the exhibition pavilion funded by Germany with a total of over 5 million Euros. Other visits were to the site of the presentation of the EMOWAA project, to the Nosona Studios of the NGA artist Enotie Ogbebor and to the traditional bronze founders and sculptors alley (Igun Street). This was followed by a tour of the National Museum of Benin City and a visit to the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, a multi-purpose building for Edo State's burgeoning film, music and arts scene, completed only a year ago.

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