National Arts Theatre reopens as Wole Soyinka Centre with dazzling performances, led by Fela and the Kalakuta Queens, on Nigeria’s 65th anniversary
National Arts Theatre reopens in Lagos after years of renovation, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu leading the official unveiling on Monday, 1 October 2025.
Also read: Tinubu to inaugurate National Arts Theatre in Lagos on National Independence Day
The iconic Iganmu edifice, Nigeria’s premier cultural hub, has now been rechristened the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, honouring the Nobel Laureate whose literary and theatrical contributions remain unmatched.
The ceremony, which coincided with Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, drew a high-powered audience, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Central Bank Governor Yemi Cardoso, lawmakers, and leading figures from the arts and corporate sectors.
The three-hour programme featured vibrant performances, headlined by a special rendition of “Fela and the Kalakuta Queens”, directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters.
The musical chronicled the life of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, his fearless activism, and the enduring influence of the women who stood beside him.
Though a shortened half-hour performance, it captivated the audience with stellar acting, electrifying dance, and evergreen Afrobeat classics.
Dr. Cardoso admitted it was “a huge one” to deliver his speech after such an energising show, while President Tinubu praised the night’s performances, saying: “I’m impressed and I’ve enjoyed myself.”
Speaking afterwards, Austen-Peters described the reopening as historic: “It is a landmark day for the creative sector. This world-class venue will further elevate Nigerian talent.”
Since its Lagos premiere in 2017, “Fela and the Kalakuta Queens” has toured South Africa, Egypt and Dubai.
It will return to Lagos at Terra Kulture Arena this December, running from 26 December 2025 to 12 January 2026, as part of the city’s festive entertainment calendar.
Also read: National Theatre renamed Wole Soyinka Centre
The reopening of the refurbished theatre marks a symbolic rebirth for Nigeria’s cultural scene, promising a new era for performers, audiences, and the wider creative economy.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
