FG To Develop The National Theatre Into A Duty-Free Entertainment Centre

There were reports that the Federal Government was seriously considering turning the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos Mainland into a five-star hotel, but recent news now claim President Goodluck Jonathan has said he is prepared to develop the place into a duty-free entertainment centre instead.

On Thursday evening at the launch of the nation's official tourism identity, "Fascinating Nigeria," at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, President Jonathan who was represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo, said besides the employment opportunities they would create, the heritage site would also raise the nation's profile in the international arena.

A number of other heritage centres nationwide were mentioned for reactivation as part of the Federal Government's efforts at improving the nation's tourism sector.

According to reports, President Jonathan was optimistic that the new national tourism brand would help globally to proclaim a new and exciting phase in the country's tourism transformation.


Jonathan also promised to encourage greater collaboration with the private sector in upgrading other cultural centres in the short and medium term bases.

He added that the government was committed to completing the National Cultural Centre, Abuja also known as "The Millennium Towers," which is currently under construction.

"Our determination to transform this (tourism) sector for the benefit of the present and future generations of our people will be underscored by fostering investments and supporting the provision of comprehensive infrastructure, as well as institutional support for projects and activities that will enhance the rise of sustainable development in the tourism sector," he said.

He said in order to further enhance the sector, he had directed the Ministry of Trade and Investment to work with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation in developing sector-specific mechanisms that would stimulate and sustain investments in the sector.