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National theatre Nigeria
Iganmu, Lagos Apapa Local Government, Lagos, Nigeria
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La
Review №1

The Lagos National Theatre, Nigeria is an icon for everyone in my generation and a recognizable sight for those commuting between Lagos Mainland and the Island. The majestic structure, 19 km away from the airport, sits in Iganmu like a quiet mountain for the last forty-five years. It is an impressive edifice that most have only seen in passing, but somehow also one of the major attractions of Lagos. Many wonder what is really going on there. Now we know.

Mo
Review №2

It needs to be to renovated and rediscovered to what it was in the late 1970 after the 1977 African Festac festival. I wish the cinemas could be reopened and the facilities cleaned up.Nigerian government please re ovate this beautiful place that has so much Nigerian history or rather forgotten African history.Still highly recommended considering its been left depleted for almost 43 years since 1977 FESTAC FESTIVAL

Lo
Review №3

The National Theatre in Lagos is definitely one of my favourite places in Nigeria. It holds a lot of history and definitely a place where a good part of our art, culture, and history are somewhat preserved.Going there yesterday, though, I was disappointed to see that the Artiste Village is now gone. I used to dance there 10 years ago. The main theatre is also under renovation and only God knows when it would be ready again. The staff at the National Gallery for Crafts and Designs were also unpleasant.However, this is a place to visit just to enjoy the structure and appreciate the scenery, the green grass and the trees. I will be back there again soon. So, yes, 4 stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 still.

fu
Review №4

Why is it lovely to be at the national theatre is because of the serenity you get whenever youre there

Su
Review №5

I have been here twice!I loved what I saw so I went back the second time.I was there with a group to see the birds living in this area and it was fun watching the birds in their habitat.After seeing the birds at the lake side, I was opportune to tour the National Theater for the very first time.The place is really beautiful - the big halls, theatre rooms and all. I was impressed!You ll need to visit to see the beauty yourself though.Right before entering the theatre, you have the garden where you can hold a get-together with friends and/or family and that’s exactly what I did the next time I was there.Had a picnic with couple of friends and they loved it too.Of course, you can get your food there also. They’v got you!

An
Review №6

An under-utilised national monument, although it is currently undergoing a massive renovation and if strategically managed, this edifice will contribute alot to the art ecosystem in Lagos and West Africa at large.

Du
Review №7

The environment is beautiful with amazing structures. Its a great place for a hangout with friends and there are horses to ride for fun. The place can be better with proper care and maintenance.

Jo
Review №8

I love passing, seeing and staying. I enjoy the place Sundays. I suggest more gardener to ensure steady maintenance. Some angles bushy.. Na beg I beg so you attain 10 stars 😂

Ak
Review №9

Its not just the National Theatre, its an underrated Cultural Heritage Site!Its an artists village, a National Gallery, a public park, a theatre for dance, plays and screen movies, and lots more, smack at the centre of Lagos in Iganmu.Oh, and contrary to what you might have heard, its got more than once access (it has three, I believe) and the institution is far from dead!

Om
Review №10

The national Art theatre is the centre for performing arts in Nigeria. A section in this monument housed the collection of national gallery of modern Nigeria Arts. It was under renovation and redevelopment at the time of visit which is to turn into a hub for film, fashion, music and information technology.

Ha
Review №11

Beautiful place!Always seen this structure from the road but I went in today, its a magnificent place but the government has decided to let it waste, its a shame.Walking in the corridor and just imagining hundreds of people laughing, having fun in there to see a movie or drama or musical performance.I hope someone open their eyes soon

Jo
Review №12

Very lovely place. The people who conceptualised it had a vision and it was grand. But it is dilapidated. Despite that, you will still be in awe of the architectural masterpiece

am
Review №13

The main theatre is currently closed. Think they want to start renovation but you can still walk around, relax and take pictures around the surroundings.

Tu
Review №14

One of Nigerians National treasure, good place for events, outdoor picnic and family gathering. Serena and lovely atmosphere.

Ab
Review №15

I love it here, and the entrance gate have this ooduduwa art very beautiful and nice place for recreation.

is
Review №16

Currently part of the team refurbishing this building

Tu
Review №17

Lovely place. Hope its restored to its former splendour.

Na
Review №18

We keep try more

Na
Review №19

The environment is beautiful. Theres parking space which if you ask me is very important. I love that there are bars here and there where one can stay and chill and eat good food too. I like it here

Go
Review №20

I took this on a bus. Im looking forward to attend events in National Theatre someday

sh
Review №21

Nice place, but poor maintenance. Its serene, and has a bar where you can enjoy barbecue fish, fish pepper soup, local dishes, etc. Has some cinema halls, but some are on rent for religious purposes

Ib
Review №22

This is one of the greatest structure to be ever built in Lagos, Nigeria, you cant but marvel at the architectural prowes of the engineers anytime you pass by this edifice, sitting at the heart of Iganmu, Lagos, its a lovely spot for play, relaxation, sports and movies, there are also a lot of games and it is also perfect for a family and friends hang out, the halls are also massive and great for all kinds of events and occasions. The government of Nigeria can still do a lot to improve this historical building as it has been abandoned and not well funded

Sa
Review №23

Under renovation. But a wonderful place to be.

Er
Review №24

The ancient place where arts meets with nature, a place to behold the architectural guru of our fathers of old. Although the current nature is called for urgent attention, the quality of materials used by our fathers is still standing test of time

Za
Review №25

I could have rated 5 stars but, the facility needs face uplifts which is sets to kick up soon. If completely renovated, it will become of the best in entire African countries, if not even the best. Already its a tourist attractions center but if renovation is fully completed, it will be an international tourist attraction center for International conferences and so on. Its beautiful place 😉

Mi
Review №26

Big and spacious! Very good for picnic

Bi
Review №27

Beautiful and peaceful. Was serenaded by twin saxophonists today, pretty young ladies.

Sa
Review №28

Great place, pride of Lagos and Nigeria. It is used to host educational events to movie events as well. Movie shoots can be done here as well too. Its a friendly environment and if you want to take a tour around the premises you can do that as well. It has a wheelchair accessible entrance to the premises but to the theater it is not easily accessible for wheelchair users as it as a little high slope.

Aj
Review №29

#ajegunletv, onlinetv

Ak
Review №30

Its such a cool monumental site, security is on check and its really clean. Its just that the grass can be well maintained

La
Review №31

The surroundings of this building are great for relaxation with food courts and bars across the road and the greenery is well cut so you could read or do whatever you want to do on it but the building on the inside is in dire need of maintenance,it is usually very hot inside due to the poor state of the air conditioners but It has good underground parking which is very good but apart from that i dont see anything good in the National theatre apart from its surroundings

To
Review №32

Nigerian masterpiece embodies our cultural outlook into international space

La
Review №33

Ill summarize my experience in one word, Amazing

Cl
Review №34

Nice place to be, clean environment and all the fun you can get.

ca
Review №35

Has a very beautiful environment and a very wide area of land..Nice environment for both children and adults playing ground,Nice and beautiful hall for eventIt have a bar and art galleries.Horse riding also available

Em
Review №36

National Theatre is one of Nigerias iconic and historic monuments. Opened in 1977 during the FESTAC event, it is a large complex or village with various sizes of theaters, conference hall, meeting rooms, office complex, restaurant, gardens, sports field and recreational park. Its symbolic military cap shape gives it a wonderful shape at night. There is a large parking space for hundreds of cars, wheelchairs and vehicles. It has wheelchair trails but no accessible entrance. The halls are quite pricey.

Is
Review №37

Good serenity...Food and drink joint...Good aesthetic for picturesPoor management.

Su
Review №38

A cool place for lovers to talk, relax and have fun

Ib
Review №39

A beautiful master piece of art. Built in the shape of the Military cap. It was used for the celebration of the Festival of arts and culture (FESTAC) in 1977.

tu
Review №40

I was opportune to work as assistant surveyor at National theatre roof,for the topographical survey of the roof,with Hi-target(DGPS), it was a large roof which is little bit more than an acreWe climb steps through a manhole to reach the roof,the roof is circular with full of breeze,with the help of God we executed the operation,here is my little experience at National theatre roof Caustain Lagos

Ta
Review №41

Beautiful edifice, but its currently under renovation(28/06/21)

Sa
Review №42

The National Theatre is the primary centre for the performing arts in Nigeria. The monument is located in Iganmu, Surulere, Lagos. Its construction was completed in 1976 in preparation for the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 1977. The collection of National Gallery of Modern Nigerian Art is housed in a section of this building.The National Art Theatre is one of the historical tour destination in Nigeria. It is an ideal tourist destination for Private and Group tours. It is educative for the children and it is a place of history and an architectural master piece.

Ca
Review №43

Still git the vibes , but renovation should be done ASAP, cause it beauty is diminishing every day.

jo
Review №44

Nice place.Renovation going on

Or
Review №45

National toll gate you meant to say...that has been its only function in years

Uz
Review №46

The National Arts Theatre is the primary centre for the performing arts in Nigeria. The monument is located in Iganmu, Surulere, Lagos. Its construction was completed in 1976 in preparation for the Festival of Arts and Culture in 1977

AN
Review №47

A beautiful place to be.

Pe
Review №48

A siren environment to see different artistic works with a nice garden

mo
Review №49

Its national place you can relax and cool off your mind.

Ug
Review №50

It was fun. But I dont know why those security men are charging for gate pass

Ja
Review №51

The National Arts Theatre has been handed to private bodies to renovate and manage for the next 21 years before handing it back to Government. I got this information when I went there today. Google map was a great companion. Thank you Google.

Ay
Review №52

Its a nice place... Suitable for events

Au
Review №53

Its an amazing place for picnic and family and friends reunion. But currently under construction 🚧

Of
Review №54

Always look unkept hoodlum always walk around the theater, no security guard

Pa
Review №55

Today at national theatre was awesome as international church of christ celebrated their 30th anniversary.we praise God for all that he has do for us may name be praised. Happy anniversary brothers and sisters.

Mi
Review №56

Cool nice place. A real place of Art.Bringing Art to Life

No
Review №57

A home of work of art go see and have a feel

Co
Review №58

One of the historical center in the hub of Lagos State, the environment is serene, great art collections, beautiful theatre for event. If you ever find yourself in Lagos, do yourself a favour by checking it out for yourself and you will be wow!

Fa
Review №59

Very impressive place with unique NG style

Ke
Review №60

Here, the cultural heritage of Nigeria is preserved.

em
Review №61

Great, Access road are 👌

Ak
Review №62

Exhilarating but not as crowded as it used to be

Ma
Review №63

It can be seen from a long distance, wears different colors, illuminations often in the evening, more/less well maintained a nice tourist attraction and this is the National Theatre in Lagos.

Lo
Review №64

Its historic

nd
Review №65

Beautiful ... It is a wonderful experience

Mo
Review №66

The place is not maintained. Grasses have overgrown everywhere and it is highly unkept

go
Review №67

Its nice to use this app.

Ch
Review №68

National Arts Theater. An iconic Massive Structure for Arts & Culture in Nigeria.

Nk
Review №69

National Theater is a dead zone now.My experience on national theater started from when I was a kid, around 2003.I used to hawk there, and it was still lively then. Every Christmas and Sallah period, Valentines day, infact on Sundays, people come there to celebrate with their family and friends.There are Cinemas, Art and craft, Shows, Bear pallors & Canteen and other funs for kids like dancing show, Hurse, etc. But my hathreth for that place is lack of proper security. Every celebration always ends with fight. Boys fighting with Police or themselves because of one thing or the other.In front of me Ive seen some guys kidnapping children but I couldnt take any action because the police I could report to are on the other side fighting and shoot.Presently the place lack management. Bushes almost everywhere.But the Art and craft, Canteen still operates

Ol
Review №70

Lovely Ambience. A great Edifice. It should be one of the tourist Attraction in Nigeria. This Place can be more lively

Em
Review №71

One of Nigerias oldest surviving monuments. The National Arts Theatre is the primary centre for the performing arts in Nigeria. Its construction was completed in 1976. It is a beauty

oy
Review №72

Attended a youth conference and the hall was spacious with a great ambience. Perfect for events, picnic and photo shoot. There are bars outside too.

Pa
Review №73

Cool and calm place

Ti
Review №74

I love this place. The building is a state of the art! And there are bars open in the evenings to help you unwind your stressful day... really cool!

Ju
Review №75

A good job has been done trying to maintain it

Sa
Review №76

National theatre is a monumental tourist site to visit while in Lagos, there are various attractions there to see like a theatre and a museum. You can also have a picnic there with friends and family.You can also view the current rail project going from the national theatre. I just wish the government will do more the restore the national theatre to the original purpose it was meant for and manage the place better.

La
Review №77

My GOD bless you with all my heart

ol
Review №78

Awesome place.. Wonderful view...

Ra
Review №79

A place of relaxing

Cu
Review №80

Got there and was in between awe and disgust. Its huge and poorly cared for sadly. Huge theatre, cinemas, conference rooms... Great for photo and video shoots, weddings and other events. Basically needs better care urgently.

Ab
Review №81

The National Arts Theatre is the primary centre for the performing arts in Nigeria. The monument is located in Iganmu, Surulere, Lagos. Its construction was completed in 1976 in preparation for the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 1977. The collection of National Gallery of Modern Nigerian Art is housed in a section of this building.

vi
Review №82

It has halls for event.It is a tranquil environment with security.It has a lot of nice spots for photographs.You can get Horse rides on Days like Sallah, Easter, Christmas & New year.There are wait & get photographers every Sundays & Special days.There is a drinking bar beside it.It is Open for everyone anytime.

op
Review №83

A historical national monument, National Theatre, which was completed in 1976. It was used to host African Festival of Arts and Culture, known as Festac 77, in the first quarter of 1977 during which many African countries showcased their cultures including fine arts, music, dances, literature, religion, etc. About 16,000 participants representing 56 African nations and African in other continents performed at the event.

Po
Review №84

It has a very nice and welcoming environment

Da
Review №85

Nice place to rehearse for all your performance

Uc
Review №86

No proper crowd control system. But has a good environmental potential.

Iy
Review №87

This place have bars for drinking and merriment

Do
Review №88

Movies are shot here almost everyday. Huge park to relax in,read or maybe a picnic.

ol
Review №89

Im giving this 5 stars mainly cause of the play I went to watch there #hearword which is a brilliantly written, funny and yet challenging look at how Women are looked at and treated in Nigeria today. Now National theatre like most of Nigerias institutions run by the government is in serious need of an upgrade and general maintenance but I would be lying if I said this historic building did not add something a bit extra to the play, the ambience inside the hall itself the lighting it all adds up. In conclusion if you hear about this play #hearword go see it and if there is a play or show at the National Theatre I highly recommend it.

Al
Review №90

Historical site in Nigeria

Ol
Review №91

Main gallery closed for now.

da
Review №92

The national theatre is still undergoing renovation , so I didnt get to go in

Te
Review №93

Known for its unique ancient artistic design.Houses many halls for concerts and events.

Po
Review №94

The conference room has enough capacity for about 700 audience

An
Review №95

The National Theatre is an architectural masterpiece and a cultural landmark located at Iganmu, in the heart of Lagos. It is easily accessible from every corner of the city. Covering an area of about 23,000 square meters and standing well over 30 meters tall, the multipurpose National Theatre was established for the preservation, presentation and promotion of Arts and Culture in Nigeria. The design for the existing National Theatre in Lagos was taken from the Palace of Culture and Sports in Varna, Bulgaria. The contract for its construction was signed on April 24, 1973, during Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s regime. Apart from providing a befitting venue for the 2nd World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77) which Nigeria successfully hosted in January/February 1977 and for which the National Theatre provided more than adequate venues.Today it’s nice place to go with families where you can watch plays and the place is so conducive making everyone feel alive.They have different event hall for any kind of event all fully air-conditioned and neat.

Ej
Review №96

I love the structure

Th
Review №97

New phase looking appreciative already

br
Review №98

While this is a public place we werent allowed to take pictures, we had to bribe our way through it. The security there arent doing a good job by ripping people off a public place, the scenery is beautiful but its doesnt feel like a safe place to be at. The least they can do Is let us know by the gate if we are supposed to pay a fee.

HU
Review №99

Its good for events covering

Or
Review №100

It was a peaceful place

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.3 Rating
  • Address:Iganmu, Lagos Apapa Local Government, Lagos, Nigeria
  • Site:http://nationaltheatrenigeria.com/
  • Phone:+234 811 383 1070
Categories
  • Drama theater
  • Performing arts theater
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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