President Bola Tinubu will tomorrow inaugurate the newly-renovated National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The renovation, executed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, represents a major investment in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative economy.
The theatre, renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in July 2024 to honour the Nobel Laureate, will host state governors, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, industry leaders, academics, cultural ambassadors, and youth representatives at the ceremony.
In a joint statement, the CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy described the reopening as both a celebration of Nigeria’s cultural legacy and a launchpad for its creative industries.
While the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee financed and delivered the renovation, the ministry collaborated in programming, policy alignment, and stewardship to ensure the facility serves as a true national asset.
The reopening will feature performances by the National Troupe and other leading artists, with special remarks from Prof. Wole Soyinka. CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso will give the welcome address, while Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, will deliver goodwill messages.
Key improvements include a completely overhauled HVAC system, enhanced fire safety measures, new electrical, water, and sewage systems, advanced audio-video-lighting technology, world-class stage engineering, 17 new passenger lifts, solar power integration, refurbished interiors and furniture, and restored historic artworks.
Speaking ahead of the inauguration, Cardoso said: “This is not just an edifice; it represents our history and culture. The transformation of this landmark into a world-class facility is a testament to the Nigerian spirit.”
Sanwo-Olu noted that the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts would not only showcase arts, tourism, and culture but also serve as a world-class venue for global conferences and performances.
Musawa described the project as “a gift to the nation and a source of pride,” stressing that the successful renovation marks a milestone in preserving cultural assets while creating opportunities for the creative industry.
Originally built under the Yakubu Gowon military regime and completed in 1976 during General Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, the National Theatre famously hosted FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture. With its transformation, it is now set to drive a new era of Nigeria’s cultural and creative renaissance.