President Bola Tinubu has renamed the renovated National Theatre in Lagos after Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka.
He said the tribute honors Soyinka’s global achievements in literature, human rights, and cultural advocacy.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that the renovated National Theatre in Lagos will now bear the name of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka. He described the move as a worthy tribute to a figure whose achievements in literature, arts, and human rights have brought Nigeria global recognition.
Speaking on Wednesday during the commissioning of the newly refurbished National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, Tinubu said the decision was meant to celebrate Soyinka’s enduring contributions. The theatre, first opened in 1976, has now been renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts.
The president noted that the modernized facility would breathe new life into Nigeria’s cultural space, boost the creative industry, and strengthen appreciation for the arts. According to him, the transformation of the complex marks “a fresh chapter in promoting our cultural heritage and creative economy.”
Tinubu had first approved the renaming of the theatre in July 2024, ahead of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Soyinka, who was present at the inauguration as a special guest, was honored for his decades of work that have inspired generations both at home and abroad.
