National Arts Theatre returns in grand style as Tinubu unveils Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary

National Arts Theatre came alive again on Monday, October 1, 2025, as the iconic cultural landmark in Iganmu, Lagos, reopened after years of extensive renovation.

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The grand occasion coincided with Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, marking a new era for the country’s creative industry.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, led an impressive list of dignitaries from government, business and the arts to unveil the newly refurbished edifice, now officially renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts.

The rechristening stands as a powerful tribute to Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, whose contribution to literature and theatre remains unparalleled in Africa’s cultural history.

The unveiling ceremony, which lasted three hours, dazzled guests with captivating performances, including a command presentation of the celebrated musical Fela and the Kalakuta Queens.

Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, the half-hour teaser brought the hall to life with its energetic choreography, brilliant acting and evergreen Afrobeat tunes from the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.

“The story of Fela and his Kalakuta Queens is deeply moving and emotionally engaging,” Austen-Peters remarked. “We are honoured to have been part of this historic moment, breathing new life into the famed National Arts Theatre.”

The musical, which chronicles Fela’s rise as a musical icon and social activist, explores his complex relationships with the women known as his Queens—his dancers, wives and collaborators who shared his vision of social change through art.

It celebrates African identity and feminine strength while dispelling long-held misconceptions about the women of Kalakuta Republic.

Delivering his remarks after the performance, the Central Bank Governor, Mr Yemi Cardoso, described it as a “huge one” to speak following such a charged and uplifting show. President Tinubu, clearly delighted, added, “I’m impressed, and I’ve enjoyed myself.”

For Austen-Peters, the moment was doubly historic. “To be part of this symbolic reopening on our nation’s 65th anniversary, with the top leaders of the country in attendance, is a proud day for the creative sector,” she said.

“It shows that our artists now have world-class venues to express and export their creativity.”

Since its Lagos premiere in 2017, Fela and the Kalakuta Queens has toured globally, enchanting audiences in South Africa, Egypt and the UAE. According to producer Joseph Umoibon, its inclusion at the reopening was “a befitting choice for such a landmark event.”

The musical is set to return to the Terra Kulture Arena from 26 December 2025 to 12 January 2026, adding colour to Lagos’s festive Detty December calendar.

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The rebirth of the National Arts Theatre not only restores a national treasure but also reinforces Nigeria’s enduring commitment to the growth of its cultural and creative economy — a true celebration of art, identity and national pride.