Today, we celebrate every theatre artist, indeed, every creative artist in Nigeria — those in the academia, on the stage, behind the camera, and in the community. We especially honour the unsung heroes in local communities and urban centres who, with limited resources but boundless passion, continue to keep the fire burning. Your resilience, your faith in Nigeria, and your belief in the transformative power of performance are the pillars upon which our creative future stands
SONTA stands ready to deepen its engagement with national development, collaborate with policymakers, and ensure that the voices of artists are heard in the corridors of power. We will continue to advocate for cultural investment, creative education, and the protection of intellectual freedom
TODAY, as Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, the Society of Nigerian Theatre Artists (SONTA) joins the nation in reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to progress.
For 39 years, SONTA has been the intellectual and cultural backbone of theatre, film, and cultural studies across Nigerian higher institutions. Through 38 conferences, we have consistently addressed the challenges facing our nation — offering critique, insight, and hope.
From the colonial era to independence and into today’s democratic journey, theatre artists have been at the forefront of advocating for a better society. Our stages have never been silent in the face of injustice. At times, we’ve gone beyond the stage — marching in the streets, raising our voices, and standing in solidarity with the oppressed. Our art has endured, not because it is easy, but because it is necessary.
Today, we celebrate every theatre artist, indeed, every creative artist in Nigeria — those in the academia, on the stage, behind the camera, and in the community. We especially honour the unsung heroes in local communities and urban centres who, with limited resources but boundless passion, continue to keep the fire burning. Your resilience, your faith in Nigeria, and your belief in the transformative power of performance are the pillars upon which our creative future stands.
As we reflect on our independence, let us renew our commitment to the ideals that theatre embodies: truth, justice, empathy, and unity. Let us also prepare for the future by embracing technology in all its ramifications—including Artificial Intelligence, digital storytelling, and immersive media. The world is changing fast, and our art must evolve with it.
SONTA stands ready to deepen its engagement with national development, collaborate with policymakers, and ensure that the voices of artists are heard in the corridors of power. We will continue to advocate for cultural investment, creative education, and the protection of intellectual freedom.
Nigeria is a story still being written. And we, the artists, are its authors.
Happy Independence Day.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Long live the Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists!
Prof. Tunji Azeez, FSONTA, FTA, MNAL
President, Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists (SONTA)
October 1st, 2025.