President says no honour is too big for the Nobel Laureate
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commissioned the newly renovated National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos—now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts—in recognition of the Nobel Laureate’s global contributions to literature, culture, and human rights.
Speaking at the inauguration on Wednesday, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, President Tinubu described Professor Wole Soyinka as “one of the most talented and creative minds the world has ever known,” adding that renaming the edifice was a fitting tribute to a man whose life’s work had placed Nigeria on the global cultural map.
“Uncle Wole Soyinka is one of the world’s greatest assets. I remember your contributions to our struggle, nation-building, and freedom. It could not have been anyone else, and I knew you would not disobey this President,” Tinubu said.
He expressed optimism that the theatre’s rebirth would rekindle Nigeria’s creative energy, boost tourism, and generate employment opportunities within the arts and entertainment sectors.
The President commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Olayemi Cardoso, and the Bankers’ Committee for their roles in the ₦68 billion renovation project, first initiated in 1976. He also urged Cardoso to establish an endowment fund to ensure proper maintenance of the facility.
Tinubu further called on Nigerians to remain proud of their country and refrain from negative narratives, saying:
“This is a country of very proud people. Let us believe in ourselves. Lift Nigeria, believe in Nigeria, and put Nigeria first.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his remarks, described the reopening as “a rebirth of a national icon” and “a celebration of Nigeria’s creative soul.” He noted that the state government contributed by providing additional land and a nearby railway station to improve accessibility to the venue.
Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, said the day marked a historic turning point for Nigeria’s creative industry, praising President Tinubu for creating a dedicated ministry to nurture the sector.
In his response, Professor Wole Soyinka expressed gratitude to the President and the CBN for the gesture, admitting he initially doubted the theatre could be revived after witnessing its deterioration. He confessed to having reservations about accepting the renaming, given his stance against naming monuments after living individuals, but said the President’s persuasion left him no choice but to accept the honour.
CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso highlighted that the renovated complex now features world-class exhibition spaces, cinema halls, and upgraded infrastructure. He said the project aligns with President Tinubu’s vision to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage and harness the creative sector for economic diversification.
Dignitaries at the event included First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, members of the National Assembly, governors, traditional rulers, ministers, and senior government officials.
The ceremony also featured captivating performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria, Gerald Eze Ensemble, MudArt House Company, and Bolade Austen-Peters Productions, marking a vibrant new chapter in Nigeria’s cultural renaissance.
