The Bankers’ Committee is on the brink of completing an extensive renovation of the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos in a stunning revival of national heritage. The committee revealed the progress during a media tour on Tuesday, showcasing the dramatic transformation of this iconic cultural landmark.
The ambitious project, which began in July 2021 following federal government approval, has breathed new life into the historic edifice. By restoring the theatre to its former glory and beyond, the Bankers’ Committee aims to create a world-class creative and entertainment hub, unlocking opportunities for Nigeria’s youth in the arts sector and potentially boosting job creation, income generation and foreign exchange earnings.
The facilities were upgraded to match the best standards of theatre and performance in the world. The entire Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system was replaced, fire safety standards, upgraded power, water supply, and sewage systems were all replaced. Upgrade of interior design with the installations of Audio Video Lighting (AVL), world stage engineering system, 11 lifts, solar power, new furniture for spaces and restoration of Artworks including those on the internal wall panels and the building façade.
The renovation works cover 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.
Speaking on the Bankers’ Committee’s restoration of the National Theatre, Mr Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc. (GTCo) said, “I don’t think there are many countries in Africa that have the talent that we have in entertainment and the arts. All you can do when you have talented people, is to give them a platform to showcase their best. We will try to give a platform, where Nigerians who are in my opinion the best, have a chance to show the world that they are the best….”
The National Theatre was constructed by the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon and completed in 1976 by the Olusegun Obasanjo administration. The completion coincided with the hosting of the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77) in January 1977.
