President Bola Tinubu has appointed Disun Holloway as the chairman of Theatre Partners, the management body overseeing the newly revitalised National Theatre in Lagos, which has now been officially renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts.
Holloway, a former Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism and Intergovernmental Affairs, is a respected figure in Nigeria’s cultural and creative sectors.
With decades of experience in governance, arts advocacy, and cultural leadership, his appointment marks a major step in aligning Nigeria’s cultural infrastructure with global standards.
N68 Billion Renovation Transforms National Theatre
The appointment comes on the heels of a landmark ₦68 billion renovation project, led by the Bankers’ Committee in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The massive redevelopment aimed to restore the National Theatre’s iconic status while reimagining it as a modern creative and performance hub for both local and international talents.
Originally projected to be completed in nine months, the renovation spanned over six years, due to complex structural issues and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The final result is a world-class cultural facility poised to serve as a beacon for artistic innovation, cultural exchange, and economic opportunity.
Holloway’s Role in Driving Cultural Sustainability
As chairman of Theatre Partners, Holloway is tasked with ensuring sustainable management and operational excellence at the newly rebranded centre. His mandate includes collaborating with federal and state agencies, private sector stakeholders, and creative professionals to harness the full potential of the centre.
“Disun Holloway’s leadership reflects a renewed commitment to cultural renaissance in Nigeria,” said a statement from the Presidency. “His deep roots in the arts and governance make him uniquely qualified to steer the Wole Soyinka Centre toward global relevance.”
Strategic Focus on Creative Economy
The centre’s renaming in honour of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka and Holloway’s appointment signal a strategic national focus on culture as a catalyst for inclusive economic development. The centre is expected to serve not only as a performance venue but also as a hub for creative entrepreneurship, talent development, and cultural diplomacy.
