Stakeholders Rally to Rescue National Theatre, Demand Reforms at World Theatre Day Summit
Leading figures in Nigeria’s theatre and creative industries have called for urgent reforms to reposition the country’s premier cultural institution, the National Theatre, warning that rising costs, policy gaps, and commercialization threaten the future of artistic production.
The call was made during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held on March 27 at Alliance Française Lagos to commemorate World Theatre Day. The event was jointly organised by the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners and the National Theatre Iganmu.
According to a communiqué made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the gathering brought together prominent practitioners, administrators, and policymakers, including NANTAP President Adeniran Makinde and National Theatre CEO Tola Akerele, alongside other industry stakeholders.
At the heart of discussions was the ongoing repositioning of the National Theatre under a public-private partnership arrangement. Participants expressed concern over the delicate balance between commercial viability and the institution’s cultural mandate.
“The National Theatre must not become just another event centre,” stakeholders emphasised, insisting it should remain a hub for artistic development, cultural preservation, and creative expression.
A major issue raised was the high cost of using the National Theatre’s facilities, which many practitioners say is prohibitive. Stakeholders warned that limited access could discourage productions and reverse recent gains in the theatre sector.
They called for subsidised rates and designated creative spaces to ensure that artists can continue to use the facility.
Participants also stressed the need for more structured theatre companies, noting that many practitioners still operate informally. According to them, formalised organisations would improve accountability and make it easier to attract funding and partnerships.
Concerns were also raised about gaps in training and career progression, with calls for a clear pipeline linking education, production opportunities, and employment.
The meeting explored alternative funding models, including private sector sponsorships, investment vehicles for productions, and corporate ticket purchases. A key proposal was the creation of an independent endowment or trust fund to guarantee long-term financial sustainability.
Stakeholders also criticised inconsistent government policies and limited industry consultation, urging stronger engagement with policymakers to create a more stable and inclusive framework for the sector.
Among the key resolutions adopted was the establishment of an annual National Theatre Festival to unify practitioners and attract investment. Participants also called for aggressive public awareness campaigns to boost visibility and audience engagement.
Ultimately, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration and innovation, stressing that Nigeria’s theatre industry holds vast untapped potential.
“The time to act is now,” the communiqué concluded, urging collective efforts to transform the National Theatre into a thriving cultural and creative hub.
