NANTAP Takes Centre Stage as Theatre Practitioners Push for Growth at APAS 2026

By Matthew Eloyi On Mar 27, 2026

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) witnessed a renewed push for the growth and sustainability of the performing arts sector as stakeholders gathered to commemorate World Theatre Day 2026 at the maiden edition of the Abuja Performing Arts Summit (APAS).

The event, hosted by the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), FCT chapter, brought together theatre professionals, creatives, and policymakers to engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of the industry.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of NANTAP, FCT chapter, Mr. Jerry Adesewo, described the summit as more than a ceremonial gathering, emphasizing its role as a platform for reflection and strategic repositioning within the performing arts ecosystem.

“Today is not just a gathering; it’s a moment for us to reflect and recalibrate as professionals and stakeholders within the performing arts ecosystem, especially in the FCT,” he said.

Adesewo highlighted the steady growth of theatre activities in Abuja, noting a significant shift from years of inactivity to a more vibrant scene. According to him, while the city once went months without a single production, recent years have seen a surge in performances, with no fewer than 13 productions staged in just the past two months.

He stressed that the summit was not intended to dictate direction but to foster honest conversations that would strengthen the industry. He also reaffirmed NANTAP’s commitment to advocacy through theatre and the performing arts.

Delivering the keynote address, poet and Director of Simply Poetry Foundation, Dike Chukwumerije, underscored the importance of the arts as a societal necessity rather than a luxury. He urged practitioners to recognize their worth and intentionally connect with their audiences.

Chukwumerije emphasized that artists must create with society in mind, advocating for collaboration across artistic genres. He warned against monopolistic tendencies, noting that diversity and cooperation are essential for sustaining audience interest.

Also speaking at the summit, the Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Olayiwola Awakan, called for a stronger integration of business principles into theatre practice and education.

Awakan stressed the need to institutionalize the “Business of Theatre,” proposing the establishment of an academy dedicated to training professionals in theatre marketing and management. According to him, such an initiative would allow artists to focus on their creative work while trained marketers handle promotion and revenue generation.

He further pledged support for theatre practitioners, assuring that his administration would collaborate with stakeholders to develop the sector and engage with NANTAP’s national leadership to explore the proposed academy.

The summit marks a significant step toward repositioning Abuja as a thriving hub for performing arts, signaling growing momentum within Nigeria’s creative industry.