President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the newly renovated National Theatre in Lagos, renamed in honour of Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, declaring that no recognition is too great for the literary icon whose works have elevated Nigeria’s global standing in arts, culture, and human rights.
Speaking at the ceremony on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, President Tinubu said the rebirth of the theatre, now officially called the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, would drive renewed investment in the nation’s creative economy.
“Uncle Wole Soyinka is one of the world’s most talented and creative minds. I remember your contribution to our struggle, nation-building and freedom. You are one of the world’s greatest assets. It could not have been anyone else,” the President said.
He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to remain optimistic about the country’s future. “This is a country of very proud people. We know what we are. Nigeria will succeed. Lift Nigeria, believe in Nigeria. Put Nigeria first,” Tinubu added.
The President praised Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso, and the Bankers’ Committee for spearheading the ₦68 billion renovation of the historic theatre, built in 1976. He also tasked the CBN to establish an endowment fund to ensure the structure’s sustainability.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the event as the “rebirth of a national icon,” noting Lagos’ contributions through land expansion and improved access with a nearby railway station. Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, hailed the commissioning as a turning point for Nigeria’s cultural destiny.
In his remarks, Professor Soyinka expressed gratitude to the President and the CBN, admitting that he had once considered the building beyond redemption. While reiterating his past reservations about renaming monuments after living figures, he said President Tinubu left him with no option but to accept the honour.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso highlighted the modernised facilities—including world-class performance halls, exhibition galleries, and cinemas—designed to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage and boost its global influence.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, governors, lawmakers, ministers, traditional rulers, and senior government officials.
The event also featured performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria, the Gerald Eze Ensemble, MudArt House Company, and Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions.
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