Maroc - SPYETV.COM.NG - A La Une - 02/Oct 17:21

Tinubu Renames National Theatre After Wole Soyinka, Commissions Renovated Edifice

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially renamed the renovated National Theatre in Lagos as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in honour of Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate whose works, he said, have placed the nation on the global stage in literature, human rights, and the creative industry.Speaking at the commissioning on Thursday, Tinubu described Professor Soyinka as “one of the most talented and creative minds in the world” and a national treasure whose contributions to democracy and nation-building remain indelible.“It could not have been anyone else. Uncle Wole Soyinka is one of the world’s greatest assets. This rebirth of the theatre will revive our culture, arts and creative economy,” the President declared.He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to believe in the country’s future:“This is a country of very proud people. Let us enjoy the glory, lift Nigeria, and put Nigeria first. This country will succeed.”The President commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso and the Bankers’ Committee for investing ₦68 billion in the theatre’s renewal. He also tasked the CBN to establish an endowment fund for its maintenance and directed that the centre be managed sustainably to create jobs and preserve Soyinka’s legacy.Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded both the Buhari and Tinubu administrations for ensuring the project’s completion, noting that Lagos provided additional land and a nearby rail station to improve access.“This is not just a renovated edifice, but the rebirth of a national icon—the heartbeat of our creative soul,” he said.Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, hailed the development as “a turning point for Nigeria’s cultural destiny,” praising the President for creating a ministry dedicated solely to the creative sector.In his remarks, Professor Soyinka expressed gratitude but admitted initial hesitation, given his criticism of naming monuments after living persons. “I never believed the theatre could be salvaged, considering its past degeneration. But President Tinubu made it impossible for me to reject this honour,” he said.CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso noted that the refurbished complex now boasts world-class halls, exhibition spaces, cinemas, and modern infrastructure. He said the project was inspired by the President’s vision to preserve heritage and highlight the economic potential of the creative industry.The event was graced by top dignitaries including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Governor of Lagos Obafemi Hamzat, ministers, traditional rulers, and senior government officials.The ceremony featured electrifying performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria, Gerald Eze Ensemble, MudArt House Company, and Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions.www.twitter.com/spyetv