‘A significant milestone to preserve cultural assets’ — Hannatu Musawa commends Bankers’ Committee for renovating national theatre
The minister said the public private partnership (PPP) between the ministry and the Bankers' Committee reflects the shared commitment of the federal government to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while fostering economic growth through the creative sector.
Hannatu Musawa, the minister of art, culture and creative economy, says the renovation of the national theatre in Lagos sponsored by the Bankers’ Committee marked a significant milestone in efforts to preserve essential cultural assets and create new opportunities within the creative industry.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, Musawa lauded the Bankers’ Committee for the renovation, noting that it has proven pivotal to the revitalisation of the national theatre.
The minister said the public private partnership (PPP) between the ministry and the Bankers’ Committee reflects the shared commitment of the federal government to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while fostering economic growth through the creative sector.
She added that the renovation is a gift to the nation, and a source of national pride.
“The successful renovation of the National Theatre marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to preserve essential cultural assets and create new opportunities within the creative industry,” the statement reads.
Musawa said the “renovation did not only breathe new life into a historic venue but also generates jobs, supports local artists, and enriches the community at large”.
“The collaboration between the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy and the Bankers’ Committee serves as a solid example of the private-public partnerships championed by the president’s renewed hope agenda,” she added.
She stressed the importance of such partnership in government’s business, adding that it underscores the potential of partnership in driving national progress, particularly in the cultural sector.
“The Ministry looks forward to deepening this partnership and replicating it with other private institutions to further advance Nigeria’s creative economy,” the minister said.
“As we look towards the future, the National Theatre is poised to deliver even greater contributions to Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
“Our next steps include delivering a state-of-the-art multi-use venue, implementing new and dynamic programming, and launching training and community programmes.
“Notably, the National Theatre will offer a versatile space designed to accommodate a wide range of cultural and artistic events, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents.”
She added that the ministry is commitment to introducing innovative programming that reflects the diverse and dynamic nature of Nigeria’s creative sector.
“To further our mission of supporting the creative industry, we have already begun to, and will continue to, launch new training initiatives and community programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of artists and cultural leaders,” the minister said.
“The newly renamed Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, in tribute to one of Nigeria’s literary giants, not only honors the legacy of Wole Soyinka but also signifies our commitment to promoting cultural excellence.”
She applauded the partners, stakeholders, and the broader community for their invaluable support, adding that, “the future of Nigeria’s creative sector is bright, and we are proud to stand together as we move forward.”
