After a lengthy restoration project and a N68 billion investment by the Bankers’ Committee, the National Theatre in Lagos, now known as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, has a new manager.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Mr. Disun Holloway as Chairman of Theatre Partners, the entity responsible for managing the facility’s operations and long-term sustainability.
Holloway, a former Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism and Intergovernmental Affairs, is tasked with maximizing the refurbished landmark’s potential as a hub for artistic expression, cultural exchange, and creative business.
Known for his strong advocacy for the arts, Holloway has consistently supported initiatives that link Nigeria’s cultural heritage with economic growth and innovation.
Read Also: Tinubu Inducts Two Fighter Aircraft To Tackle Insecurity
His appointment is timely, as the National Theatre has undergone significant revitalization after years of neglect.
The restoration, funded by the Bankers’ Committee and overseen by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), involved a N68 billion investment to upgrade the facility to international standards, positioning it as a key component of Nigeria’s creative infrastructure.
The renovation, initially projected to last nine months, ultimately took six years due to underestimation of the necessary structural and operational repairs, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these delays, the National Theatre has been transformed into a modern space capable of hosting performances, exhibitions, festivals, and conferences, serving as both an artistic platform and a driver for job creation and tourism.
As Chairman of Theatre Partners, Holloway will manage the post-renovation phase, focusing on establishing sustainable management systems, fostering collaborations with federal and state institutions, and engaging with Nigeria’s creative industry stakeholders.
The aim is to make the Centre a catalyst for economic development, cultural diplomacy, and youth empowerment.
Holloway’s leadership is expected to be crucial in realizing the vision behind renaming the venue after Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, a symbol of Nigeria’s global artistic and literary contributions.
Under his guidance, the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts is expected to become a regional cultural landmark, supporting film, music, dance, theatre, design, and technology-driven creativity.
Join Informant Online WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaihFajBadmT29ufud2
