As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will officially inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos—renamed last year as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in honour of the Nobel Laureate.
The multi-billion-naira transformation, delivered through the collaboration of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, represents one of the boldest investments in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative economy in decades. It signals the rebirth of the iconic landmark as a global hub for arts, culture, and performance.
The inauguration ceremony will attract a distinguished audience, including state governors, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, captains of industry, academics, cultural ambassadors, and youth leaders. Guests will witness electrifying performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria and top contemporary artists, alongside special remarks from Prof. Wole Soyinka.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso is expected to deliver the welcome address, while goodwill messages will come from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.
In a joint statement, the CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy described the reopening as both “a celebration of Nigeria’s cultural legacy and a launchpad for its creative future.”
The renovated theatre now meets international performance standards with sweeping upgrades:
- A modern HVAC system and enhanced fire safety measures.
- Complete overhauls of electrical, water, and sewage systems.
- State-of-the-art audio-visual-lighting and stage engineering technology.
- 17 new passenger lifts and integrated solar power solutions.
- Restored interiors, refurbished furniture, and conservation of historic artworks adorning the façade and halls.
Speaking ahead of the unveiling, CBN Governor Cardoso remarked:
“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.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu added:
“The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts will not only showcase our arts, tourism, and culture but will also serve as a premier venue for global conferences and performances.”
For Minister Musawa, the project is “a gift to the nation and a source of pride. It secures our cultural assets while opening vast new opportunities for Nigeria’s creative industry.”
Originally commissioned under the Yakubu Gowon military regime and completed in 1976 under General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre is famously remembered for hosting FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture. With its rebirth, it now stands ready to power the next phase of Nigeria’s cultural and creative renaissance.
President Tinubu will inaugurate the newly renovated National Theatre, renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre, on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day. A landmark rebirth for arts, culture, and the creative economy.
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