National Theatre management debunks fire outbreak rumour
The management of the National Theatre has debunked the rumour that the iconic building was razed by fire on New Year’s Eve.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the management said that the fire incident occurred at a remote area annexed to the National Theatre environment, formerly occupied by the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC), around a portion of land called the Artiste Village.
The statement said that the fire did not affect the National Theatre main building, which is currently undergoing rehabilitation, nor any of the facilities under its care.
The statement also said that there was no structural or human damage caused by the fire, and that the situation was quickly brought under control by the Emergency Response Team and the Lagos State Fire Service.
The management expressed its gratitude to the fire fighters and other agencies that responded swiftly to the incident, and assured the public that it is working closely with the relevant authorities to ascertain the actual cause of the fire and prevent its future occurrence.
The statement read in part: “We would like to state that the headline is misleading. Fire did not raze the National Theatre building that is currently being rehabilitated. The fire occurred at a remote area annexed to the National Theatre environment, formerly occupied by CBAAC, around a portion of land called the Artiste Village and the area is miles away from the National Theatre main building currently under rehabilitation.”
The statement added: “The National Arts Theatre holds a special place in our hearts as a symbol of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and national pride. As custodian of this iconic institution, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all visitors, staff, and artists.”
