Lagos to redevelop Oregun Theatre into cultural, entertainment hub
The Lagos State Government has restated plans to redevelop the Oregun Theatre into an integrated theatre-cinema complex as it seeks to create a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub in the area.
The commitment was reiterated on Wednesday during a meeting on the reconstruction project and proposed development of the complex at the office of the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, stressed the need to incorporate a cinema into the project to increase patronage, attract visitors and provide residents with convenient access to locally produced films.
She said decentralising entertainment facilities across Lagos would bring quality cultural experiences closer to residents while creating more opportunities for filmmakers, theatre practitioners and other creative professionals.
“The Oregun Theatre will also provide a platform for residents to conveniently access locally produced films. This will create more opportunities for filmmakers and encourage greater patronage of Nigerian content,” she said.
Benson-Awoyinka also proposed collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to improve the road network around the theatre. The meeting further considered complementary facilities, including market spaces and community-focused programmes, to support local businesses and create economic opportunities.
She said the redeveloped Oregun Theatre would go beyond serving as a conventional performance venue to become a cultural and entertainment destination capable of attracting residents and visitors, supporting creative practitioners and contributing to the socio-economic development of its host community.
The commissioner added that the ministry was ready to work with relevant government agencies, private-sector partners and other stakeholders to deliver the project and strengthen Lagos’ creative economy.
