Rebirth of a Cultural Landmark: The National Theatre Returns as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts

Nigeria’s National Theatre reopens as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts — a rebirth of heritage, creativity, and history. Goge Africa revisits the story of this iconic cultural landmark.

A Living Monument of Nigeria’s Creative History
The National Theatre, one of Nigeria’s most recognizable landmarks, has long stood as a symbol of our nation’s artistic pride and ambition.
Constructed between 1973 and 1976 by the Bulgarian firm Technoexportstroy, the theatre’s iconic design was inspired by the Palace of Culture and Sports in Varna, Bulgaria — but it was magnificently expanded to reflect Nigeria’s cultural confidence in the years following independence.
Commissioned on September 30, 1976, the edifice rose to international prominence as the central venue for the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77) — a monumental gathering that brought together thousands of artists, intellectuals, and cultural icons from across Africa and the diaspora.
From theatrical performances to musical concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings, the National Theatre became a home of creative expression and a testament to the unity of Black and African peoples worldwide.

A Home for Youth and Inspiration
Over the years, this cultural landmark has not only hosted legendary performers but also inspired young Nigerians through education and mentorship.
For over ten years, the National Theatre proudly hosted the Goge Africa Foundation’s Annual Career Guidance and Counselling Seminar for secondary school students.
Through this initiative, thousands of students were exposed to mentorship, self-discovery, and career direction — igniting dreams and building capacity for Nigeria’s next generation of achievers.

A Grand Reopening Befitting a Legend
Fast forward to October 1st, 2025 — Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary — when history was made once again.
After years of renovation under a public-private partnership led by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism & Creative Economy and the Lagos State Government, the National Theatre reopened with new splendor.

Renamed in honour of Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, the refurbished edifice now features state-of-the-art sound and lighting, improved accessibility, upgraded facilities, solar integration, and renewed artistic spaces — harmonizing heritage with innovation.

A Reunion of Icons and Visionaries
The reopening ceremony was a star-studded reunion of Nigeria’s creative vanguard, top government officials, and industry legends — all gathered to celebrate the rebirth of the nation’s cultural temple.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were:
* President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu
* Prof. Wole Soyinka
* Senate President Godswill Akpabio
* Speaker Tajudeen Abbas
* Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
* Minister Hannatu Musawa
* Director Generals from the FMACTCE and the General Manager of the newly launched Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Industries.

Also present were Ambassadors Isaac and Nneka Moses, Co-Founders of Goge Africa, who joined other cultural icons and creative leaders to witness this historic renaissance.
“The event served as a reunion of Nigeria’s creative community — a beautiful blend of nostalgia, pride, and renewed hope for the arts.” — Amb. Nneka Isaac-Moses

Performances that Stirred the Soul
The reopening was nothing short of a cultural spectacle — a night that beautifully showcased Nigeria’s diversity, rhythm, and artistic excellence. The National Troupe of Nigeria delivered a mesmerizing traditional performance that celebrated unity in diversity. All thanks to Hadjia Kaltume and her team. Theatre lovers were treated to a powerful musical tribute to Fela Anikulapo Kuti, produced by Bolanle Austen-Peters, celebrating the Afrobeat legend’s enduring legacy. Acclaimed folk music artist Gerald Eze added depth and soul with his enchanting performance. The event was gracefully anchored by Eugenia Abu, the eloquent veteran broadcaster, and Dr. Henry Nzekwu, whose presence added intellect and warmth to the evening.

Legacy, Symbolism, and the Future
The transformation of the National Theatre into the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts represents much more than physical renewal — it signals a cultural rebirth for Nigeria.
It symbolizes:
* Continuity, connecting FESTAC ’77’s legacy with today’s creative movement.
* Collaboration, proving that culture thrives when public and private sectors unite.
* Legacy, celebrating the icons — from Soyinka to Fela — who gave voice to Africa’s soul.
With its new creative hubs, galleries, and performance spaces, the Centre is poised to become a vibrant driver of Nigeria’s creative economy, tourism, and youth empowerment.

Conclusion
The National Theatre has once again taken centre stage — radiant, restored, and ready to inspire.
For Goge Africa, this rebirth is deeply personal. Having used the Theatre to mentor youths and host cultural events for over a decade, we celebrate its transformation as a renewal of purpose — a reminder that creativity, culture, and community remain the lifeblood of our nation.
As the curtain rises once more, we join Nigerians everywhere in applauding this magnificent comeback story — proof that when culture leads, progress follows.

“The curtain rises again — Nigeria reborn through culture.”