President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled the newly renovated National Theatre in Lagos, renaming it the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in honour of Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu described Soyinka as one of Nigeria’s and Africa’s greatest assets, saying the decision to rename the theatre was deliberate and a tribute to his immense contributions to nation-building, freedom, and global culture.
“It’s a wonderful evening. First Lady, my wife, a daughter of the freedom that we are enjoying, and my own jewel of inestimable value, I say happy birthday once again,” Tinubu began, extending his greetings.
“To the Honourable Speaker of the House of Representatives, today happens to be your birthday too. We celebrate you. You will live long—better than this theatre. Thank you very much, Mrs. President.
“The Senate President, thank you. The Deputy Speaker and Deputy Senate President, I salute all of you. We’ve been together yesterday and here today. I only just be a fourth of chance.”
Reflecting on the choice of renaming, Tinubu said:“For our dear uncle and leader, one of the most talented and creative minds, Uncle Wole Soyinka. No conspiracy anywhere—I did it. When they brought the question of renovation to my desk, I remembered the journeys that we had together and the gains that I shared with you. Your contribution to our courage, nation-building, freedom. Yes, in some cases, our rewarded talents is a proverb. But you are a jewel, our talent.
“What a proverb of being. You are one of the greatest assets of the world, the continent, and the country, Nigeria. So it couldn’t have been anything else. And I know definitely you will not disobey this president. So I say it has to be Wole Soyinka Centre. They corrected my English—the culture and the naming. And I’m glad we are here today.”
The President also expressed gratitude to cultural stakeholders, Lagos State, and the Federal Ministry of Culture, saying:
“I know to most of our members of the cultural group, the ministry, Lagos State, I’m more than grateful for tonight. I’ve enjoyed the evening. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary.
“This has broken the monotony of military marching past parades and everything. By scheduling this programme, I was able to have a good sleep, have a nice breakfast, and wait for this evening. And today is an evening well spent.”
He paid special tribute to the former Lagos State governor and current Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola, whom he fondly referred to as “the governor without tenure”:
“The governor without tenor, no campaign, contributions counting on dimes and nickels, no ways and means, the headmaster, Yemi Cardoso. Thank you for that beautiful remark about the history and the importance of our youth and relating it to this theatre. And our talents—some of them might not be rewarded yet, but with the innovation of this, the bankers’ committees have found it necessary to reward the entire continent.”
Recalling Nigeria’s cultural heritage, Tinubu added:“The world gathered here, Africa gathered here, for FESTAC 77. The entire continent was bubbling. Nigeria was a proud nation.”
He used the platform to urge Nigerians at home and abroad to project a positive image of the country:
“Tonight, let me take this opportunity to say one thing that is very, very important to me, to you, my government, and Nigeria in diaspora. That is—stop talking about Nigeria in ill, negative tones. This is a country of very proud people.
“We know we might not be where we want to be because of education. There are a lot of educated relics around the world. But it’s about ourselves, believing in something we inherited from our parents, our great forebearers. A nation of brave people, confident, and dedicated. Let’s build it together. Let’s rechristen it.
“If you had a bad dream, forget it. This country will succeed. And it’s with you, myself, and many other people who might not be here, that we enjoy the glory and reap the fruits. Please, lift Nigeria. Believe in Nigeria. Put Nigeria first.”
On sustaining the theatre’s revival, Tinubu announced plans for an endowment fund.
“It’s now left with Cardoso and others to put together an endowment fund. And I’m going to be a contributor. And it’s not a bad thing for us to use this opportunity to create jobs, maintain accessibility and commitment. This place will not go derelict again.”
Closing his remarks, the President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future:
“Very happy Independence Day. I wish you joy, happiness and progress. From here on, like I said yesterday, the worst is over. I will turn the corner. The economy has recovered. I am confident if you manage it properly, prosperity will come. Believe in yourself. And give everybody the hope they need.
“Live the spirit of our people. This is the giant of Africa. It won’t fall on you. It won’t diminish. In my hand, in my presence,”he concluded.
