The Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa has lauded the Bankers’ Committee for facilitating the ongoing renovation and revitalization of the National Theatre, Iganmu, in Lagos.
Musawa, in a statement on Monday, said the Public, Private Partnership (PPP) exhibited by the Ministry and the Bankers’ Committee in executing the renovation of the National Theatre reflects a shared commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while fostering economic growth through the creative sector.
She described the renovation as a gift to the nation and a source of national pride.
“The successful renovation of the National Theatre marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to preserve essential cultural assets and create new opportunities within the creative industry,” Musawa said.
The renovation, she said, not only breathes new life into a historic venue but also generates jobs, supports local artists and enriches the community at large.
“The collaboration between the Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy and the Bankers’ Committee serves as a solid example of the private-public partnerships championed by the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” she added.
The minister emphasized the importance of such partnerships in government business, stressing the potential of such collaborations in driving national progress, particularly in the cultural sector.
She said, “The Ministry looks forward to deepening this partnership and replicating it with other private institutions to further advance Nigeria’s creative economy.
“As we look towards the future, the National Theatre is poised to deliver even greater contributions to Nigeria’s cultural landscape. Our next steps include: Delivering a State-of-the-Art Multi-Use Venue, implementing new and dynamic programming, and launching training and community programmes.
“Notably, the National Theatre will offer a versatile space designed to accommodate a wide range of cultural and artistic events, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents.”
Musawa further disclosed that the Ministry is committed to introducing innovative programming that reflects the diverse and dynamic nature of Nigeria’s creative sector.
“These programs will be tailored to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a deeper connection to the arts.
“To further our mission of supporting the creative industry, we have already begun to, and will continue to, launch new training initiatives and community programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of artists and cultural leaders.
“The newly renamed Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in tribute to one of Nigeria’s literary giants, not only honors the legacy of Wole Soyinka but also signifies our commitment to promoting cultural excellence,” the minister added.
She applauded the partners, stakeholders, and the broader creative sector community for their invaluable support.
According to Musawa, “The future of Nigeria’s creative sector is bright, and we are proud to stand together as we move forward.”
DAILY POST reports that President Bola Tinubu had, in a birthday message to Prof Wole Soyinka on July 13, 2024, announced the renaming of the National Theatre after the Nobel laureate.
Subsequently, the facility has come to be known as ‘The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts’.
National Theatre renovation, good model for PPP – Creative Economy Minister, Musawa
