President Tinubu Commissions Renovated National Theatre, Renames It in Honour of Wole Soyinka

opeolumartinOctober 2, 202503 mins

Lagos, Nigeria – October 2, 2025

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commissioned the newly renovated National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, now rechristened as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts. This landmark event coincided with Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations, underscoring the nation’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage.

A Tribute to a Literary Icon
The renaming of the National Theatre was announced on July 12, 2024, to commemorate the 90th birthday of Professor Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s first Nobel Laureate in Literature. In his tribute, President Tinubu lauded Soyinka as a multifaceted genius—playwright, poet, essayist, actor, and a staunch advocate for justice and democracy. He highlighted Soyinka’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movements and his global influence in the arts and human rights .

A World-Class Transformation
The renovation of the National Theatre was a collaborative effort between the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy. The project introduced state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced stage engineering, cutting-edge audio-visual technology, solar power integration, and improved fire safety systems. These enhancements aim to position the theatre as a premier venue for both national and international cultural events .

Ceremony Highlights
The commissioning ceremony featured addresses from notable dignitaries, including CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, and Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka himself. The event also showcased performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria, celebrating the nation’s vibrant artistic traditions.
Looking Forward
With its revitalization, the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts is poised to become a hub for cultural exchange, artistic innovation, and a testament to Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy. President Tinubu’s initiative reflects a broader vision to harness the power of the arts in fostering national unity and global recognition.