Plans are underway by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Deposit Money Banks to transform the National Theatre at Iganmu in Lagos and make it more fun for tourism.
The CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, who disclosed this on Monday during the Creative Nigeria Summit in Lagos, noted that banks are expected to officially declare the project on Wednesday.
He explained that this was part of the banking sector’s efforts to harness the innovative and creative energy of the youths, towards enabling them to create productive ventures that would support improved wealth and job creation in Nigeria.
Emefiele said, “This was the critical reason behind the CBN and the Bankers Committee decision, following our annual retreat in December 2018, to set up the Creative Industries and Financing Initiative.
“Using the AGSMEIES fund through which the banks set aside on an annual basis five per cent of their profit after tax, our goal is to support startups and existing businesses in the creative industry space, as well as the development of a creative industry park across three major cities in Nigeria.
“With the kind support of the Federal and Lagos State Governments, the National Theater Iganmu in Lagos is expected to serve as the initial pilot for the Creative Industries Park.
“Our plan is to develop a 40- acre Creative Industry Park around the National Theater including giving the Theater itself tremendous facelift; thereby reopening the touring potential the National theater offered during the FESTAC 77 arts culture.”