Lagos, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, October 1, inaugurated the newly renovated National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, officially renamed in honour of Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
Tinubu described the gesture as a fitting tribute to Soyinka’s unmatched contributions to literature, arts, and human rights, calling him “one of the world’s greatest assets.”
According to Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the National Theatre’s rebirth represents more than just a renovation – it marks a revival of Nigeria’s arts, culture, and creative economy.
“I Knew You Would Not Disobey” – Tinubu
While addressing the audience, President Tinubu praised the 91-year-old Soyinka for his enduring legacy:
“Uncle Wole Soyinka is one of the most talented and creative minds. I remember your contribution to our struggle, nation-building, and freedom. It could not have been anyone else, and I knew you would not disobey this president.”
The theatre, now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, was first rebranded in July 2024 under Tinubu’s directive.
Lagos Governor, CBN Credited for Revival
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended both the Buhari and Tinubu administrations as well as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for ensuring the once-neglected landmark regained its glory.
Professor Soyinka, visibly moved, admitted he was initially reluctant to have the theatre named after him, given his stance on renaming monuments after living figures. However, he said Tinubu left him with no choice but to accept the honour.
“I never believed this theatre could be salvaged, given its deterioration. But seeing this today, I must thank President Tinubu and the CBN for making the impossible possible.”
National Leaders Applaud Transformation
House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas hailed the unveiling as a “symbolic transformation” and a milestone for Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
“This not only immortalises one of Africa’s greatest literary giants but also signals a fresh dawn for Nigerian arts, culture, and creative expression.”
Similarly, Senator Shehu Sani praised the renaming and acknowledged former President Olusegun Obasanjo for building the edifice for FESTAC ’77, as well as former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele for mobilising the Bankers’ Committee to revive the project after decades of neglect.
A Theatre Reborn
The reopening of the National Theatre marks a turning point for Nigeria’s cultural identity, with hopes that it will once again become the heartbeat of arts, performance, and creativity across Africa.
