The historic National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, yesterday came alive as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led dignitaries to the grand commissioning, re-opening, and re-dedication of the 4,000-capacity edifice, now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in honour of Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate.
The event drew an impressive gathering of political leaders, cultural icons, and traditional rulers, underscoring the national significance of the refurbished landmark. Those in attendance included First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka; the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido; Central Bank Governor, Yemi Cardoso; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; and Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Tinubu described the re-opening as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s cultural rebirth, stressing the role of the creative industry in fostering unity, identity, and economic growth. He noted that naming the centre after Prof. Soyinka was a fitting tribute to his towering contributions to literature, democracy, and the promotion of African heritage.
“This centre will serve not only as a monument of history but as a hub for innovation, creativity, and global engagement. Our cultural institutions must reflect the richness of Nigeria’s diversity and the resilience of her people,” Tinubu said.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Stock Market Gains 38% in 2025, Outpacing Last Year
Prof. Soyinka, visibly moved by the honour, expressed gratitude and called on the younger generation of artists to see the centre as a platform for excellence. He emphasized that culture and creativity remain powerful tools for nation-building and global recognition.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the Lagos State government’s partnership in the project, noting that the transformation of the once-neglected National Arts Theatre into a world-class facility was a testament to public-private collaboration.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, hailed the centre as a bridge between Nigeria’s past and future, while Senate President Akpabio and Speaker Abbas commended the federal government’s commitment to promoting the arts.
The re-dedicated facility, with modern stages, galleries, and creative spaces, is expected to host festivals, exhibitions, and performances that will position Nigeria as a cultural powerhouse in Africa and beyond.
With its re-opening, the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts stands as a symbol of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to preserving its heritage while empowering a new generation of creative talents.