President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled the newly renovated National Theatre in Lagos, officially renaming it the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in honour of Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
Speaking at the Independence Day cultural event, Tinubu described Soyinka as one of Africa’s greatest intellectuals and a global cultural icon. He said the renaming was a deliberate tribute to Soyinka’s immense contributions to nation-building, freedom, and creativity.
Why the Theatre Was Renamed
Tinubu explained that the decision was personal and symbolic.
“For our dear uncle and leader, one of the most talented and creative minds—Uncle Wole Soyinka—no conspiracy anywhere. I did it,” he said. “You are one of the greatest assets of the world, the continent, and the country, Nigeria. So it couldn’t have been anything else. It has to be Wole Soyinka Centre.”
The President recalled Nigeria’s proud cultural history, including hosting the world during FESTAC ’77, and stressed the need for Nigerians to project the nation positively at home and abroad.
Message to Nigerians and the Diaspora
Tinubu urged Nigerians to stop portraying the country negatively.
“This is a country of proud people. Please, lift Nigeria. Believe in Nigeria. Put Nigeria first,” he declared.
He also announced plans for an endowment fund to sustain the theatre’s revival, pledging his own contribution to ensure the facility never falls into neglect again.
Cultural Stakeholders Recognised
Tinubu expressed gratitude to Lagos State, the Federal Ministry of Culture, and cultural stakeholders. He also paid tribute to former Lagos governor and Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola, and Central Bank Governor Yemi Cardoso for their roles in supporting the creative sector.
Closing his remarks, Tinubu tied the theatre’s revival to his broader vision of national renewal:
“Very happy Independence Day. The worst is over. The economy has recovered. Believe in yourself and give everybody hope.”
