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.