SONTA Marks Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Calls Theatre Artists “The Soul of a Nation”
Jerry Adesewo
Abuja, October 1, 2025 – As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists (SONTA) has reaffirmed the central role of theatre and the creative arts in shaping national identity, promoting justice, and driving cultural development.
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In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Tunji Azeez, FSONTA, FTA, MNAL, the association described theatre artists as “the soul of a nation,” noting that for decades, performers, scholars, and cultural practitioners have been at the forefront of social advocacy, using art to speak truth to power and inspire positive change.
For 39 years, SONTA has served as the intellectual and cultural backbone of theatre, film, and performance studies in Nigerian higher institutions. Through 38 national conferences, the body has consistently interrogated Nigeria’s socio-political challenges while offering insight and hope.
“From the colonial era to independence and into today’s democratic journey, theatre artists 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,” the statement read.
Prof. Azeez also paid tribute to artists working with little or no resources across urban centres and rural communities, describing them as “unsung heroes” who continue to sustain the creative fire through passion and resilience.
Looking ahead, SONTA emphasized the need for Nigerian theatre to embrace emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, digital storytelling, and immersive media. “The world is changing fast, and our art must evolve with it,” Azeez said.
The association further pledged to strengthen collaboration with policymakers, advocate for increased cultural investment, expand creative education, and safeguard intellectual freedom.
“Nigeria is a story still being written. And we, the artists, are its authors,” the statement concluded.
SONTA Marks Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Calls Theatre Artists “The Soul of a Nation”