President Bola Tinubu will officially inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, on Independence Day,Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
The landmark project was completed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee as part of their commitment to national development, signifying a major investment in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative industries.
President Tinubu, who renamed the theatre the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in July 2024 to honour the Nobel Laureate, will be joined by state governors, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, business leaders, scholars, cultural ambassadors, and youth representatives.
A joint statement from the CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy described the reopening as a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and a catalyst for growth in the creative sector.
While the renovation was fully financed and executed by the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee, the Ministry’s role in programming and cultural policy ensures that the rejuvenated theatre will serve as a national treasure.
The event will feature performances by the National Troupe and other prominent artists, with remarks from Prof. Wole Soyinka.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso will deliver the welcome address, complemented by goodwill messages from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister Hannatu Musawa of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
The upgraded theatre now meets global standards, boasting a comprehensive overhaul of the HVAC system, enhanced fire safety, upgraded electrical and water infrastructure, state-of-the-art audio-visual and lighting equipment, world-class stage engineering, 17 new passenger lifts, solar power integration, restored historic artwork, and refurbished interiors and furniture.
CBN Governor Olayemi 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.”Governor Sanwo-Olu said:“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 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.”
Constructed during the Yakubu Gowon military regime and completed in 1976 under General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre hosted the historic FESTAC ’77 festival.