The National Theatre in Lagos, a historic symbol of Nigeria’s artistic and cultural heritage, has been given a new lease on life following the completion of a $100 million renovation funded by the Bankers’ Committee.
After nearly two years of extensive renovation, the iconic monument is now poised to become a global cultural destination.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Bankers’ Committee announced the successful completion of the massive renovation and upgrade of facilities at the National Theatre, a significant milestone in the effort to revive Nigeria’s cultural identity and support the burgeoning creative sector.
The renovation, which began in July 2021 after being approved by the Federal Government, involved upgrades to nearly every aspect of the theatre.
This included the restoration of the 4,000-seater main bowl, the over 3,000-seater banquet hall, exhibition halls, cinemas, VIP spaces, actors’ changing rooms, an industrial kitchen, and more than 300 new toilet cubicles.
Other upgrades include a new clinic, a fire station, lobbies at the theatre’s four entrances, and extensive roof repairs.
Speaking during a tour of the renovated theatre, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director/CEO of Sterling Bank Group, who represented the Bankers’ Committee, expressed his awe at the scale of the project.
“We were shocked at the scale of the work that needed to be done,” Suleiman said. “But we were also impressed by the possibilities that it represented. This is one of the largest scaled projects of its kind anywhere on the continent.”
The renovation wasn’t just about restoring the physical structure; it was about reigniting hope and breathing new life into Nigeria’s cultural and creative landscape.
“The renovation of the National Theatre showcases what is possible with patriotism and collective responsibility from the private sector, in collaboration with the Federal and Lagos State Governments,” Suleiman said.
The extensive refurbishment has elevated the National Theatre to world-class standards, creating a space capable of hosting international events, performances, and conferences.
Some of the most significant upgrades included the replacement of the entire heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, the enhancement of fire safety standards, and the overhaul of power, water supply, and sewage systems.
The theatre’s interior design was also modernized, with the installation of advanced audio-video lighting and world-class stage engineering systems, as well as the installation of 17 passenger lifts to improve accessibility.
In addition, the Bankers’ Committee ensured the sustainability of the monument by installing solar power systems, restoring priceless artworks that adorn the internal walls and building façade, and installing new furniture throughout the various spaces.
Beyond the interior renovations, external works were also carried out, including the refurbishment of three entrance gatehouses, the construction of four themed landscapes, a new car park capable of accommodating 250 vehicles, a ring road, and the installation of external street lighting and CCTV cameras for enhanced security.
During the tour, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, Managing Director of Lotus Bank Ltd, described the renovation as a “rebirth of a national treasure and the restoration of Nigeria’s cultural and artistic heritage.” She added, “We are very excited about the completion of this project, and we are indeed very proud of the work we have done here.”
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also lauded the project and the potential of the revamped theatre.
“Upon completion, the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts (National Theatre) will not only serve as a hub for arts, tourism, and culture but will also become a venue for the international community to convene for conferences and enjoy world-class performances,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The National Theatre was originally constructed in the 1970s under the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon and completed in 1976 during the administration of Olusegun Obasanjo.
It was a key venue for the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77) held in January 1977, solidifying its place as a cultural landmark.
Now, after decades of neglect and decline, the $100 million renovation project has restored the theatre to its former glory, with new possibilities for Nigeria’s creative industries.
By breathing new life into this iconic structure, the Bankers’ Committee has not only preserved a piece of Nigerian history but also opened the door to a future where the nation’s rich cultural heritage can continue to flourish on the global stage.
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