NIGERIA: Tinubu Commissions Renovated National Theatre, Renames It After Wole Soyinka

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday commissioned the newly renovated National Theatre in Lagos, describing its rebirth as a milestone for Nigeria’s arts, culture, and creative economy.

The President reaffirmed that renaming the edifice after Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka was a fitting tribute to a man whose works and advocacy had placed Nigeria firmly on the global stage.

“Uncle Wole Soyinka is one of the most talented and creative minds. I remember your contribution to our struggle, nation-building and freedom. You are one of the world’s greatest assets. It could not have been anyone else,” Tinubu said, while praising the playwright, poet and activist.

Tinubu called on Nigerians at home and abroad to project a positive image of the country, urging them to “lift Nigeria, believe in Nigeria, and put Nigeria first.”

The President lauded the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee for contributing N68 billion to the theatre’s rehabilitation, and directed CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso to establish an endowment fund to ensure its long-term maintenance.

He also commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who highlighted the state’s role in the renewal by providing land and building a railway station to improve access to the theatre.

Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, hailed the commissioning as “a turning point for Nigeria’s cultural and creative destiny,” while describing Tinubu’s creation of a dedicated ministry for the industry as historic.

Professor Soyinka, visibly moved, admitted he had initially hesitated to accept the honour, given his past criticism of naming monuments after living figures, but said the President’s insistence left him no choice.

Cardoso explained that the refurbished complex now boasts world-class theatres, exhibition galleries, cinema halls, and modern infrastructure designed to honour Nigeria’s artistic heroes and boost the creative industry as a driver of economic growth.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, governors, ministers, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and senior government officials.

Guests were entertained with performances from the National Troupe of Nigeria, Gerald Eze Ensemble, MudArt House Company, and Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions.