National Arts Theatre’s Reopening Gets Boost With CBN Gov’s Visit But Delay Worries NANTAP

National Arts Theatre’s Reopening Gets Boost With CBN Gov’s Visit But Delay Worries NANTAP

By Anuoluwapo Lebi

The long-awaited commissioning of the renovated National Arts Theatre has gotten a boost with the visit of Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso but National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) is worried about its delay.

Cardoso recently led members of the Bankers’ Committee for an inspection tour expressing satire with the vision and resources put behind the project by the Bankers’ Committee on the project.

It would be recalled that the renovation of the National Arts Theatre began in July 2021, following approval by the federal government, under the Muhammad Buhari-led administration and the subsequent handover of the national edifice to the Bankers’ Committee.

The immediate past President of NANTAP, Mr. Israel Eboh, fta, expressed concerns over the delay in the reopening of the cultural monument during in his valedictory speech at the Body of Fellows Investiture Dinner and Recognition Awards Ceremony of Eko 2024 National Delegates Convention in Lagos.

He emphasised that “It is of great concern that nearly two years after renovations were completed, the National Theatre remains under lock and key, unutilised. We therefore, call on the relevant authorities to act swiftly and ensure that this iconic cultural landmark is fully operational for the benefit of the creative industry.”

However, during his recent tour of the editice, Cardoso was silent on the date of relaunch of the infrastructure but noted its economic impact capable of generating an estimated 25 billion dollars.

Highlighting the tremendous cultural relevance and economic value of the National Arts Theatre, Cardoso noted that the creative sector has the potential to generate an estimated 25 billion dollars, acting as a powerful engine for broader economic growth.

“This is a giant leap forward, a source of immense pride for all Nigerians. Moving forward, it’s crucial that we all, not just the Bankers’ Committee, take responsibility for safeguarding this national treasure,” the Governor said.

At inception, the Banker’s committee allocated 21 billion naira for its refurbishment which covers different spaces, including the 4,000-seater main bowl, over 3,000-seater banquet hall, 2-nos. exhibition halls, 3-nos. cinemas, VIP spaces, actors’ changing rooms, industrial kitchen, over 300 new toilet cubicles, clinic, fire station, lobbies within the four National Theatre entrances and extensive roof repairs.

External works supporting the National Theatre were also carried out in the refurbishment of the three entrance gatehouses, constructions of four themed landscapes, car park block (250 cars), the ring road, and installation of external street lightings and CCTV cameras.