TINUBU UNVEILS RENOVATED NATIONAL ARTS THEATRE OCTOBER 1
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By Sunmisola Shodayo
President Bola Tinubu is set to inaugurate the recently refurbished National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos on Independence Day.
This information was revealed in a statement from the Central Bank of Nigeria on Monday.
The renovation of the National Theatre has been executed by the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee as part of their dedication to contributing positively to the nation, signifying a significant investment in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative future.
As stated, Tinubu, who in July 2024 rechristened the structure as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in honor of the Nobel Laureate, will preside over an esteemed assembly of state governors, members of the National Assembly, representatives from the diplomatic community, influential business leaders, scholars, cultural ambassadors, and youth leaders.
The CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy noted in the statement that the reopening of the theatre is not only a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage but also a launch point for its creative industries.
While the renovation was funded and facilitated by the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee, the Ministry’s collaboration in programming, policy alignment, and oversight of Nigeria’s cultural framework guarantees that the revitalized National Theatre will function as a truly national asset.
The reopening event will include performances by the National Troupe and other prominent artists, along with special addresses from Professor Wole Soyinka. CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso will present the welcome speech, accompanied by goodwill messages from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.
Enhancements to the facility encompassed a complete overhaul of the HVAC system, improved fire safety protocols, new electrical, water, and sewage systems, state-of-the-art audio-video-lighting technology, top-tier stage engineering, 17 additional passenger lifts, solar power integration, refurbished interiors and furnishings, and the restoration of historical artworks both on the exterior and within the theatre.
Prior to the inauguration, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso remarked, “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 expressed that, “The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts (National Theatre) will not only showcase arts, tourism, and culture, but will also serve as a world-class venue for global conferences and performances.”
Minister Hannatu Musawa characterized the initiative as “ 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 during the Yakubu Gowon military regime and finalized in 1976 under General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre famously hosted FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.
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