Wole Soyinka Accepts National Theatre Renaming After ₦68bn Renovation in Nigeria

Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka has accepted the renaming of Nigeria's National Theatre in Lagos to the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, a decision made by President Bola Tinubu's administration in July 2024 without Soyinka's prior knowledge. Despite his well-known criticism of public monuments being named after individuals, Soyinka was persuaded by the extensive ₦68 billion renovation funded by Nigerian banks, which transformed the dilapidated theatre—once plagued by leaking roofs and exposed wiring that endangered performers—into a restored cultural landmark meeting international standards. Soyinka expressed mixed feelings but acknowledged the restoration as a "tasty morsel" of redemption and a tribute not only to himself but also to pioneering figures in Nigerian theatre. He hopes the revitalized centre will host international festivals and youth programs, fostering Lagos's creative sector and preventing Nigerians from needing to travel abroad for quality African theatre. The event coincided with Nigeria's Independence Day celebrations, where leaders emphasized unity and the importance of positively projecting Nigeria's image. President Tinubu also directed the establishment of a National Arts Theatre Endowment Fund to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the centre.