Theatre is more than entertainment—it is a mirror of society, a voice for the voiceless, and a catalyst for transformation. This convention will provide a robust platform to explore, debate, and expand the role of the performing arts in national development
FEBRUARY 18-22, delegates from the various chapters of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners, NANTAP, will converge in Lagos for the 2024 “Delegate Convention” of the organisation that represents professionals in the various vocations of the theatre discipline.
Speaking at a press conference held at Freedom Park, Lagos, the President of NANTAP, Israel Eboh (fta), had been moved from its original December 2024 date to February, due to some logistics reasons.
At the Press parley, Eboh said the convention will reflect on the theme, “Theatre, Politics, and National Development,” focusing on the urgent need to explore the role of theatre in shaping national consciousness, governance, and civic engagement.”
Eboh, NANTAP President, convener EKO2024
Explaining the theme, Eboh said “Theatre is more than entertainment—it is a mirror of society, a voice for the voiceless, and a catalyst for transformation. This convention will provide a robust platform to explore, debate, and expand the role of the performing arts in national development.”
Eboh urged theatre practitioners, arts enthusiasts, corporate bodies, and government agencies to support and participate in the event.
He said, “This convention will be both historic and transformative. Together, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to using theatre as a force for national transformation.”
Describing the convention as a crucial gathering of theatre professionals, scholars, policymakers, and creative entrepreneurs from across the country, Eboh, who, after two terms in office, is expected to step down from the presidency of the organisation, said the 5-day convention will feature among others, a diverse lineup of activities, including theatrical performances, workshops on scriptwriting, directing, stage design, and digital theatre innovations.
Other items in the event line-up include panel discussions and seminars, networking sessions and an awards night, where distinguished individuals will be honoured with the prestigious NANTAP Fellow’s Medal.
Eboh also announced the convention’s ambassadors, a distinguished group of industry icons including veteran actress Joke Silva, Chief Chika Okpala (MFR), Hajiya Lantana Ahmed, Dr. Sam Dede, Mrs. Sarah Boulos, and Steve Onu (YAW).
He further expressed gratitude to the convention’s partners and sponsors, including Leadway Assurance Plc, the National Theatre, the National Council for Arts & Culture (NCAC), the National Film & Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Pocari Sweat, Black Stallion Energy Drink, Zuri24 Media, Royal Roots Company (owners of R2TV and R2 Radio 107.1FM), Audio Visual Rights Society (AVRS), and AgeWell.
