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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Wednesday, October 1, officially inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The historic edifice, renamed in July 2024 as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in honour of the Nobel Laureate, has undergone a world-class transformation financed and delivered by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee.
Tinubu is expected to lead a high-profile gathering of state governors, federal lawmakers, members of the diplomatic corps, captains of industry, academics, cultural ambassadors, and youth leaders for the landmark event.
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 rich cultural legacy and a springboard for the nation’s creative industries.
The inauguration 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 goodwill messages are expected from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.
The multi-year renovation upgraded the National Theatre to meet international standards. Key improvements include a completely overhauled HVAC system, enhanced fire safety, modern electrical and water facilities, advanced audio-visual technology, new stage engineering, 17 passenger lifts, solar power integration, refurbished interiors and furniture, and restored historic artworks across the building’s façade and halls.
CBN Governor Cardoso said the project represents a bold statement of cultural pride:
“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.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the refurbished theatre would play a dual role as both a cultural and economic hub: “The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts will not only showcase arts, tourism, and culture, but will also serve as a world-class venue for global conferences and performances.
Similarly, Minister Musawa described the project as “a gift to the nation and a source of pride. The successful renovation of the National Theatre marks a milestone in our collective effort to preserve cultural assets while creating new opportunities for the creative industry.”
Originally constructed under the Yakubu Gowon regime and completed in 1976 under General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre gained international prominence as the host venue for FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.
Nearly five decades later, the edifice now reopens as a symbol of renewal at a time Nigeria seeks to reposition its creative economy for global competitiveness.
The reopening ceremony is expected to be one of the high points of Nigeria’s 65th independence celebrations, themed “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.”
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