President Bola Tinubu has announced the renaming of the National Theatre in Lagos to The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in honour of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, who turns 90 on Saturday, July 13.

In a statement by his media aide Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu highlighted Soyinka’s profound influence on literature, activism, and Nigeria’s democratic struggle.

He praised Soyinka as a champion of democracy and a relentless voice against corruption.

Tinubu recalled their shared history in advocating for democracy, particularly during the struggle following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

He noted Soyinka’s global stature in mobilizing opposition to military rule through organizations like NALICON and NADECO.

Soyinka, a celebrated playwright, novelist, poet, and advocate for good governance, became the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986.

He has received numerous other prestigious awards, including the Benson Medal and the Europe Theatre Prize.

The National Theatre, originally completed in 1976 in preparation for the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC), has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s performing arts scene.

This renaming follows President Tinubu’s recent dedication of the Arterial Road N20 in Abuja to Soyinka’s honor, underlining the government’s recognition of his contributions to Nigerian culture and society.

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