The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the development of theatre, cinema and the wider creative industry through the provision of accessible, strategically located and sustainable entertainment facilities across the State.
The commitment was reiterated during a discussion meeting on the reconstruction of the Oregun Theatre and the proposed development of an integrated theatre-cinema complex, held on Wednesday, 26th August 2026, at the office of the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
The meeting was attended by the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka; the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila; Director, Monument and Museum Management Department of the Ministry, Mr. Ibrahim Ladejobi; the Oregun Theatre Consultant, Chief Executive Officer of Thespian Family Theatre and Production, Mrs. Ayo Jaiyesimi; and the Director, Mr. Gbenga Onabanjo.
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Discussions focused on the progress of the Oregun Theatre reconstruction project and the vision to expand theatre and cinema infrastructure across Lagos, while creating spaces that can support cultural activities, entertainment, tourism and economic development within host communities.
Speaking at the meeting, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka emphasised the need to incorporate a cinema into the Oregun Theatre project to increase patronage, attract more visitors and provide residents with convenient access to locally produced films.
She noted that the development of theatre and cinema facilities in different parts of Lagos would help decentralise entertainment infrastructure and bring quality cultural experiences closer to residents, while creating additional 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.
The Commissioner also stressed the importance of accessibility and supporting infrastructure to the success of the project. She proposed collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to explore improvements to the road network around the project site, thereby enhancing connectivity and ease of movement.
Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka further advocated the integration of complementary initiatives that could support the broader development of the area, including community-focused programmes and other activities capable of generating economic opportunities for residents.
The meeting also explored the inclusion of complementary commercial and recreational facilities, such as market spaces, which could increase foot traffic, support local businesses and enhance the overall appeal of the proposed theatre-cinema complex.
The Commissioner reiterated that the Oregun Theatre would be developed beyond a conventional performance venue into a vibrant cultural and entertainment destination capable of attracting residents and visitors, supporting creative practitioners and contributing to the socio-economic development of its host community.
“We are decentralising entertainment by bringing quality cultural experiences closer to the people, not just in a few central locations,” she stated, expressing the readiness of the Ministry to collaborate with relevant MDAs, private-sector partners and other stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of the project.
The engagement underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening Lagos’ creative economy, promoting local content, expanding cultural infrastructure and creating sustainable platforms for entertainment, tourism and community development.
