Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
The historic National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, has been re-opened and re-dedicated as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in honour of Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka. The commissioning ceremony, which drew prominent dignitaries from across Nigeria, took place on Wednesday and marked a new chapter in the nation’s cultural and creative heritage.
The event was graced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who led the official unveiling of the newly refurbished centre. He was joined by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido; and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Yemi Cardoso. Together, they celebrated the transformation of the theatre into a 4,000-capacity facility set to serve as a hub for the promotion of arts, literature, music, and creative expressions in Nigeria.
Speaking during the ceremony, President Tinubu highlighted the significance of renaming the iconic edifice after Professor Wole Soyinka, describing him as “a living legend whose works, ideas, and struggles have shaped the intellectual and cultural direction of Nigeria for decades.” He added that the centre would not only serve as a space for artistic performances but also as a unifying platform for creative minds across Africa.
Professor Wole Soyinka, visibly moved by the honour, expressed deep gratitude, noting that the rededication of the theatre to arts and creativity reflects the nation’s renewed commitment to cultural values. “This is not just about me, but about the generations of artists and cultural activists who believe that art is an instrument of truth, justice, and progress,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the re-opening as a milestone for Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole, stressing that the centre will boost tourism, create jobs, and serve as a rallying point for Africa’s creative industry.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido, commended the Federal Government’s decision, calling it a worthy recognition of Soyinka’s immense contributions to global literature and the arts. He further urged young Nigerians to draw inspiration from Soyinka’s courage and intellect.
The rebranding of the National Arts Theatre into the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts is expected to reposition Nigeria as a leading destination for arts and culture in Africa, while preserving the legacy of one of its most celebrated icons.
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