President Bola Tinubu will, tomorrow, officially open the newly-renovated National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The historic project, executed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, represents a significant investment in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative economy.
The theatre, which Tinubu 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, the diplomatic corps, captains of industry, academics, cultural ambassadors and youth leaders at the inauguration ceremony.
In a joint statement, the CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy described the theatre’s reopening as both a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and a launchpad for its creative industries.
While the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee financed and delivered the renovation, the ministry’s partnership in programming, policy alignment, and stewardship ensures that the rejuvenated facility will serve as a truly 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 deliver the welcome address, while Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, will give goodwill messages.The facility has been upgraded to meet the highest global standards for theatre and performance.
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 the restoration of historic artworks across the façade and interiors.
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 said the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts would not only showcase arts, tourism, and culture, but would 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,” adding that the successful renovation marks a milestone in efforts to preserve cultural assets while creating new opportunities for the creative industry.
Originally constructed under the Yakubu Gowon military regime and completed in 1976 under General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre famously hosted FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture. With this transformation, it now stands ready to host the next era of Nigeria’s cultural and creative renaissance.
