Tinubu to Inaugurate Renovated National Theatre on Independence Day

By Oluwakemi Kindness

President Bola Tinubu will on Wednesday, October 1, inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, as part of events marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

The project, executed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, is described as a major investment in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative economy.

Renamed in 2024 as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, the theatre now meets world-class performance standards with modern HVAC and fire systems, new stage engineering, solar power integration, 17 passenger lifts, and refurbished interiors.

A statement by the CBN said the reopening will feature performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria, remarks from Prof. Wole Soyinka, and goodwill messages from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Arts and Culture Hannatu Musawa.

CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso said: “This is not just an edifice; it represents our history and culture. Its transformation into a world-class facility is a testament to the Nigerian spirit.”

On his part, Governor Sanwo-Olu added: “It will showcase arts, tourism, and culture, and serve as a venue for global conferences and performances.”

Minister Musawa described the edifice as: “A gift to the nation and a source of pride.”

Originally built in the 1970s and hosted the iconic FESTAC ’77, the theatre is now positioned to drive Nigeria’s cultural and creative renaissance.