President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, officially inaugurate the newly renovated National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The historic project, executed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee as part of their commitment to giving back to the nation, marks a bold investment in Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative future.
President Tinubu who, in July 2024, renamed the edifice the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in honour of the Nobel Laureate, is expected to lead state governors, members of the National Assembly, the diplomatic corps, captains of industry, academics, cultural ambassadors, and youth leaders.
In a joint statement, the CBN, the Bankers’ Committee, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy underscored the theatre’s reopening as both a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and a launchpad for its creative industries.
Speaking ahead of the inauguration, CBN governor, Olayemi Cardoso said, “this is not just an edifice; it represents our history and culture. The transformation of this landmark into a world-class facility is a testament to the Nigerian spirit.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also commented, “The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts (National Theatre) will not only showcase arts, tourism, and culture but will also serve as a world-class venue for global conferences and performances.”
While the CBN and the Bankers’ Committee financed and delivered the renovation, the ministry said its partnership in programming, policy alignment, and stewardship of Nigeria’s cultural ecosystem ensures that the rejuvenated National Theatre will serve as a national asset.
Prof. Wole Soyinka and the CBN governor, Olayemi Cardoso, are expected to deliver the welcome address, with goodwill messages from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others.
The upgrade to the edifice includes an overhauled HVAC system, enhanced fire safety measures, new electrical, water, and sewage systems, advanced audio-video-lighting technology, world-class stage engineering, 17 new passenger lifts, solar power integration, refurbished interiors and furniture, and the restoration of historic artworks across the facade and interiors.
Originally constructed under the Yakubu Gowon military regime and completed in 1976 under General Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Theatre hosted FESTAC ’77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.
