President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commissioned the newly renovated National Theatre in Lagos, now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in honor of Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
The President described the renaming as a fitting tribute to Soyinka’s contributions to Nigeria’s creative industry and human rights advocacy, emphasizing that “no honor is too big” for the literary icon.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu highlighted the theatre’s revival as a boost for Nigeria’s arts, culture, and creative economy. He urged Nigerians to promote national pride and unity, stating, “This is a country of very proud people… Lift Nigeria, believe in Nigeria. Put Nigeria first.”
He also commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), its Governor Yemi Cardoso, and the Bankers’ Committee for their N68 billion contribution to the renovation of the 1976-built structure.
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Tinubu called for an endowment fund to ensure the theatre’s maintenance and job creation to preserve Soyinka’s legacy.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised the federal government and CBN for revitalizing the theatre after years of neglect, noting the state’s support through additional land and a nearby railway station.
He described the theatre as “the heartbeat of our nation’s creative soul” and a foundation for unity and progress.Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, hailed the commissioning as a “turning point” for Nigeria’s cultural landscape, crediting Tinubu’s vision for establishing a dedicated ministry for the creative industry.
CBN Governor Cardoso highlighted the upgraded facilities, including world-class halls, galleries, and cinemas, aimed at preserving Nigeria’s heritage and boosting economic growth through the creative sector.
Professor Soyinka, a guest of honor, expressed gratitude but admitted initial reservations about the renaming, given his criticism of naming monuments after living figures.
He humorously noted that President Tinubu made it “impossible” for him to decline the honor.
The event, attended by dignitaries including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and other top officials, featured performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria and other cultural groups.