President Bola Tinubu will tomorrow inaugurate the remodelled National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.
The project, undertaken by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, is regarded as a major investment in the country’s cultural heritage and creative economy.
Tinubu had in July 2024 renamed the iconic venue the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in honour of Nigeria’s Nobel laureate. Dignitaries expected at the ceremony include state governors, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, industry leaders, academics, cultural figures, and youth representatives.
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 cultural legacy and a platform to strengthen the creative industry.
The upgraded facility features modern electrical, water and sewage systems, a new HVAC network, enhanced fire safety measures, advanced lighting and sound technology, world-class stage engineering, 17 new lifts, solar integration, refurbished interiors, and restored historic artworks.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, who will deliver the welcome address, said the project reflects the resilience of the Nigerian spirit. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa are also billed to speak, while Prof. Wole Soyinka is expected to give special remarks.
The event will include performances by the National Troupe and other leading artists.
Originally constructed in the 1970s and famously the venue for FESTAC ’77, the National Theatre now re-emerges as a modern cultural hub, positioned to host both local and international performances, conferences, and exhibitions.
