President Tinubu to inaugurate the renovated National Arts Theatre in Lagos, renamed Wole Soyinka Centre, marking a milestone for Nigeria’s creative future

The National Arts Theatre in Lagos is set for official reopening on Independence Day, with President Bola Tinubu scheduled to inaugurate the fully renovated cultural landmark.

Also read: Tinubu names National Theatre after Wole Soyinka

The statement from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) confirms that on 1 October 2025, President Bola Tinubu will lead the ceremony at the National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.

The theatre was renamed in July 2024 as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in honour of the Nobel Laureate.

The renovation of the theatre was driven by the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy.

This public–private partnership underscores their shared commitment to renewing Nigeria’s cultural infrastructure.

While the CBN and bankers funded and executed the structural overhaul, the Ministry will be responsible for cultural programming, policies, and the artistic stewardship of the venue.

The inauguration will draw state governors, National Assembly members, cultural ambassadors, diplomatic corps, industry captains, academics, youth leaders, and creatives.

The opening programme will include performances from the National Troupe, speeches from Professor Wole Soyinka, remarks by CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, and goodwill messages from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu and Minister Hannatu Musawa.

The theatre’s transformation is extensive. Upgrades include:

A new HVAC system, electrical, water, and sewage overhauls
Enhanced fire‑safety systems, stage engineering, advanced audio, video, and lighting technology
17 new passenger lifts, solar power integration, refurbished interiors
Restoration of historic artworks across facades and interiors

These enhancements aim to restore the theatre not just as a performance venue, but as a modern cultural hub aligned with global standards.

CBN’s Cardoso described the venue as more than a structure, saying it embodies Nigeria’s history and culture and stands as proof of national spirit.

Sanwo‑Olu added that the centre will elevate arts, tourism, and serve as a world-class venue for global performances.

Minister Musawa called the project a “gift to the nation,” highlighting its role in preserving cultural heritage and advancing the creative sector.

Built in 1976 and originally home to FESTAC ’77, the National Theatre has long been a symbol of Nigeria’s artistic ambition.

Its renovation and reopening signal a renewed investment in the country’s cultural identity and creative economy.

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With this, the government and its partners hope to ignite a resurgence in local arts, attract international performances, and provide a platform for Nigerian talent at home and abroad.