President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will officially inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, as part of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebrations.
The project, executed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, is aimed at boosting the nation’s cultural heritage and creative economy.
The theatre, renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in July 2024, will host a distinguished gathering including state governors, members of the National Assembly, the diplomatic corps, cultural ambassadors, industry leaders, and youth representatives.
A joint statement from the CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy described the reopening as a celebration of Nigeria’s cultural legacy and a launchpad for the country’s creative industries.
While the renovation was financed and executed by the CBN and Bankers’ Committee, the Ministry will oversee programming and ensure the theatre serves as a national cultural hub.
The inauguration will feature performances by the National Troupe and leading artists, along with special remarks from Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso will deliver the welcome address, with messages from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister Hannatu Musawa.
Upgrades to the facility include a modern HVAC system, advanced fire safety, new electrical and plumbing systems, state-of-the-art audio-visual and lighting technology, world-class stage engineering, 17 new passenger lifts, solar power integration, refurbished interiors, and restored historic artworks.
Cardoso described the renovation as “a testament to the Nigerian spirit,” while Governor Sanwo-Olu said the centre will serve as a venue for global performances and conferences.
Minister Musawa called it “a gift to the nation and a source of pride,” highlighting its potential to expand opportunities for the creative sector.
Originally constructed under the Yakubu Gowon regime and completed in 1976 during General Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, the National Theatre famously hosted FESTAC ’77.
With the renovation complete, it is set to lead Nigeria into a new era of cultural and creative renaissance.
