President Bola Tinubu will inaugurate the newly renovated
National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos on Wednesday.
The inauguration is part of activities to commemorate
Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary.
The project was executed by the Central Bank of Nigeria
(CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee.
The edifice was renamed the ‘Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture
and the Creative Arts’ in July 2024 by Tinubu.
In a joint statement on Tuesday, the CBN, the Bankers’
Committee, and the ministry of arts, culture and creative economy, said the
theatre’s reopening is a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and a
launchpad for its creative industries.
“While the renovation was financed and delivered by the CBN
and the Bankers’ Committee, the Ministry’s partnership in programming, policy
alignment, and stewardship of Nigeria’s cultural ecosystem ensures that the
rejuvenated National Theatre will serve as a truly national asset,” the
statement reads.
“Upgrades to the facility meet the highest global standards
for theatre and performance.
“Key improvements include a completely 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
façade and interiors.”
Ahead of the inauguration, Olayemi Cardoso, CBN governor,
said the theatre is not just an edifice but a repository of Nigeria’s history
and culture.
“The transformation of this landmark into a world-class
facility is a testament to the Nigerian spirit,” he said.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos governor, said “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”.
On her part, Hannatu Musawa, minister of arts and culture,
described the project as “a gift to the nation and a source of pride”.
“The successful renovation of the National Theatre marks a
milestone in our collective effort to preserve cultural assets while creating
new opportunities for the creative industry,” she added.
The reopening will feature performances by the National
Troupe and other leading artists, along with special remarks from Soyinka.
Cardoso will deliver the welcome address, with goodwill
messages from Sanwo-Olu and Musawa.
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com