The Immediate Past President of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), Mr. Israel Eboh, has expressed optimism about the future of Nigerian Theatre even as it confronts daunting challenges.
Mr. Eboh, in his welcome speech at the opening of the just-concluded National Delegates Convention of NANATAP in Lagos, stated with confidence that the future of Nigerian Theatre is bright, but emphasized that its continued growth demands the collective effort, dedication, and resilience of practitioners.
He used the opportunity to celebrate the journey and achievements of his administration while conveying appreciation to supporters and sponsors of the Convention.
Here is the full text of Mr. Eboh’s welcome speech:
WELCOME SPEECH BY ISRAEL EBOH, (FTA), PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIAN THEATRE ARTS PRACTITIONERS (NANTAP) AT THE OPENING OF THE NATIONAL DELEGATES CONVENTION – EKO 2024 HELD AT GLOVER MEMORIAL HALL, LAGOS, FEBRUARY 19, 2025
Distinguished Guests, Body of Fellows, Honourable Delegates, Esteemed NANTAP Members, Theatre Professionals, Partners, Sponsors, Members of the Press, and Friends of the Arts,
With immense joy and deep gratitude, I welcome you all to the NANTAP National Delegates Convention – EKO 2024!
Though originally scheduled for December 2024, we made the strategic decision to move it forward to ensure robust participation from our chapters nationwide. And today, standing here in Lagos—the heartbeat of Nigeria’s creative and cultural economy—I am truly humbled by the sight of this incredible congregation of artistes, thought leaders, policymakers, and theatre enthusiasts. Your presence is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Nigerian theatre community.
As we convene here at the historic Glover Memorial Hall, a venue rich with the echoes of artistic excellence and theatrical milestones, we reaffirm one fundamental truth: Theatre is not just entertainment—it is an instrument of social change, a voice for the voiceless, and a force for national development.
A Theme That Resonates With Our Time
The theme for this year’s convention, “Theatre, Politics, and National Development,” could not be more timely.
From the dawn of civilization, theatre has held up a mirror to society, chronicling its struggles, triumphs, and aspirations. It has shaped ideologies, questioned power structures, and fueled revolutions. Whether in ancient Greece, where drama was a tool for civic engagement, or in contemporary Nigeria, where theatre continues to challenge and inspire, our craft has always been at the forefront of shaping discourse.
As we reflect on this powerful intersection between theatre and governance, I am certain that our keynote speaker, His Excellency, Ambassador Peter Ryan of the Embassy of Ireland, will provide profound insights that will further illuminate our conversations.
A Convention Like No Other
Over the next few days, we have curated a dynamic lineup of workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions, seminars, plenaries, performances, and awards designed to educate, challenge, and inspire us. We will hear from seasoned scholars, industry leaders, and policymakers as we explore the evolving role of theatre in national development.
I encourage every delegate to engage fully, share ideas, and seize this opportunity to collaborate. The future of Nigerian theatre is in our hands, and what we build here, together, will define the next chapter of our industry.
Gratitude to Our Supporters
This convention would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and partners, whose belief in the transformative power of theatre has fueled our initiatives over the years. Your investment in the arts is an investment in the soul of our nation.
To our friends in the media, we extend our deepest appreciation. You have been instrumental in amplifying our voices, documenting our stories, and ensuring that our message reaches the world. Your role in preserving and promoting Nigerian theatre cannot be overstated.
Celebrating Our Journey and Achievements
As I stand before you today, reflecting on the journey of the last seven years as President of this great association, I am filled with immense pride at what we have achieved together:
Capacity Building & Training Initiatives: We have trained hundreds of theatre practitioners through specialized workshops, mentorship programmes, and international collaborations.
Policy Advocacy & Industry Recognition: NANTAP has engaged policymakers at all levels, advocating for better policies, increased funding, and stronger structures to support the creative sector.
Theatre Infrastructure Development: We have supported efforts to rehabilitate performance spaces and create more avenues for artistic expression.
Collaborations & Partnerships: Through strategic partnerships, Nigerian theatre has gained greater visibility globally while creating opportunities for practitioners to showcase their talents.
Recognition & Awards: We have institutionalized a reward system that celebrates excellence in theatre practice and honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to our profession.
I will elaborate on these achievements in my valedictory speech at the Award Dinner, but let me say this: While we celebrate how far we have come, we must also recognize that the journey is far from over. The future of Nigerian theatre is bright, but its continued growth demands our collective effort, dedication, and resilience.
A Call to Action
As we embark on this convention, I urge each of you to participate actively—ask questions, challenge ideas, spark conversations, and forge new collaborations. Let us use this platform as a Launchpad for bold new initiatives that will shape the future of theatre in Nigeria.
And so, with great excitement, I declare NANTAP National Delegates Convention – EKO 2024 officially open!
Let the conversations begin. Let the performances inspire. Let the workshops ignite new possibilities. And let us together shape the future of theatre in Nigeria!
Long Live Nigerian Theatre!
Long Live NANTAP!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Thank you, and welcome to EKO 2024!
ISRAEL EBOH, fta
National President
