September 29, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu will, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The iconic complex, renamed in July 2024, as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, has been transformed through a multi-billion-naira renovation funded by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy.
Dignitaries expected at the ceremony include state governors, federal lawmakers, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, cultural ambassadors, and youth representatives.
The event will feature performances by the National Troupe and top Nigerian artists, with Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka billed to deliver special remarks.
CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, will give the welcome address, while goodwill messages will come from Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Minister Hannatu Musawa.
Speaking ahead of the reopening, 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 described the project as “a world-class venue that will showcase Nigeria’s arts, tourism, and culture while serving as a global conference and performance hub.”
On her part, Minister Musawa hailed the renovated theatre as “a gift to the nation and a source of pride. It is a milestone in our collective effort to preserve cultural assets while opening new opportunities for the creative industry.”
Upgrades to the theatre include a modern HVAC system, advanced fire safety installations, overhauled electrical and water systems, state-of-the-art stage technology, 17 passenger lifts, solar integration, refurbished interiors, and restored artworks across the façade and halls.
First constructed under General Yakubu Gowon’s regime and completed in 1976 during General Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, the National Theatre gained global recognition after hosting FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture. With this transformation, it is now positioned to drive Nigeria’s next cultural and creative renaissance.
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