The Bankers’ Committee has announced the completion of the National Theatre’s extensive restoration and upgrade, a landmark project that began in July 2021. Following approval from the Federal Government and the formal handover of the iconic structure, the renovation has now reached its successful conclusion.
The restoration project aimed to tap into the creative sector’s potential for Nigeria’s youthful population. The revamped National Theatre is expected to create numerous job opportunities, boost income generation, and enhance foreign exchange earnings, transforming into a vibrant hub for creativity and entertainment.
The renovation covered a wide range of improvements. Major upgrades included the main auditorium with a 4,000-seat capacity, a 3,000-seat banquet hall, two exhibition halls, three cinemas, VIP lounges, actors’ dressing rooms, an industrial kitchen, over 300 new restroom facilities, a clinic, a fire station, and renovated lobbies at each of the Theatre’s four entrances. Significant structural improvements were also made to the roof.
During a tour of the facility on Wednesday in Lagos, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director/CEO of Sterling Bank Group and representative of the Bankers’ Committee, remarked on the scale of the project. “Initially, we were surprised by the magnitude of the work required, but we were equally inspired by the possibilities it presented. This project stands as one of the largest of its kind on the continent,” he said, emphasizing the world-class standard of the restoration.
“The renovation of the National Theatre by the Bankers’ Committee demonstrates the power of patriotism and collective responsibility,” Suleiman added. “It shows what can be achieved when the private sector works with both the Federal and Lagos State governments to rejuvenate national monuments and assets.”
The upgrades brought the Theatre up to global performance venue standards. This included a complete overhaul of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, enhanced fire safety measures, improved power infrastructure, and upgraded water supply and sewage systems. The interior features state-of-the-art Audio Video Lighting (AVL) systems, world-class stage engineering, 17 passenger lifts, solar power solutions, new furniture, and restored artworks on internal walls and the building façade. External improvements included refurbishing three entrance gatehouses, creating four themed landscapes, a new car park with a capacity for 250 vehicles, a ring road, and installing external street lighting and CCTV cameras.
Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, Managing Director of Lotus Bank Ltd and also a representative of the Bankers’ Committee, described the project as a “rebirth of a national treasure and a restoration of our culture and heritage.” She expressed pride in the completed work, highlighting the Committee’s dedication to enhancing this cultural landmark.
Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised the renovation, stating, “Upon completion, the Wole Soyinka Center for Culture and the Creative Arts (National Theatre) will not only serve as a venue for arts, tourism, and culture but will also become a significant site for international conferences and world-class performances.”
Originally constructed under General Yakubu Gowon’s military regime and completed in 1976 during Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, the National Theatre was inaugurated to host the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77) in January 1977. The recent restoration revitalizes this historic venue, ensuring it continues to be a beacon of cultural and artistic excellence.
