Beyond the pandemic, the economic recession posed another set of challenges, affecting funding, investment, and employment in the sector. However, despite these difficulties, we remained resolute in our mission—to reposition NANTAP as a leading force in the creative industry and to advocate for the recognition and support of theatre arts as a tool for national development
Your Excellency, Chairman Board of Trustees, Distinguished Guests, Body of Fellows, Honourable Delegates, Esteemed NANTAP Members, Theatre Professionals, Sponsors, Partners, Members of the Press, Friends of the Arts, Ladies and Gentlemen.
TONIGHT is a deeply emotional and humbling moment for me. As I stand before you, reflecting on the journey of the past years, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and hope. Serving as the President of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), the umbrella body for theatre and allied arts practitioners in Nigeria and the only body in the creative industry in Nigeria registered under the Land Perpetual Succession Act of 1960, has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. It has been a journey of dedication, challenges, triumphs, and, most importantly, collective progress.
The Journey and Challenges
Leading an organization like NANTAP comes with its fair share of challenges. During this tenure, we faced two of the most defining global and national crises — the COVID-19 pandemic and the global economic downturn. These challenges shook the very foundations of the creative industry. Theatres went dark, productions halted, and our practitioners struggled to survive. But in the face of these difficulties, we found hope, strength, and resilience. We adapted, we innovated, and we held on to the belief that theatre is not just a profession—it is a lifeline for culture, education, and national identity.
Beyond the pandemic, the economic recession posed another set of challenges, affecting funding, investment, and employment in the sector. However, despite these difficulties, we remained resolute in our mission—to reposition NANTAP as a leading force in the creative industry and to advocate for the recognition and support of theatre arts as a tool for national development.
Our Achievements: A Legacy of Growth
Through the collective strength of our members, partners, and stakeholders, we have recorded numerous milestones that will shape the future of our Association and industry.
- Restructuring and Rebranding NANTAP: We undertook a strategic restructuring and rebranding process, ensuring that NANTAP is positioned for greater impact. This involved strengthening our internal structures, overhauling our systems, redefining our identity, and reinforcing our commitment to excellence. During our tenure, we undertook a full members audit, introduced a new identification cards, membership certificates, instituted the Body of Fellows and the Honours and Privileges Committee, as well as sign into law a new constitution
- Strengthening Corporate and Financial Governance: We prioritized transparency and accountability, ensuring that our financial records were properly audited. We obtained key regulatory certifications, including the Tax Identification Number, SCUML Compliance, and Joint Tax Board Certificate while also clearing the backlog of unfiled returns with the Corporate Affairs Commission, positioning NANTAP as a credible and responsible institution.
- Historic NUTAF 2019 – The First NUTAF Held Outside the University System: For the first time in its history, we successfully hosted the Nigerian Universities Theatre Arts Festival (NUTAF 2019) outside the university environment. Our successful hosting of NUTAF 2019 marked a turning point in the evolution of the festival, opening doors for greater industry participation.
- Institution of Insurance Coverage for Members: The welfare of our members remained paramount, which is why we ensured the continuity of the insurance scheme with Leadway Assurance Plc. Now in its seventh uninterrupted year, I am proud to report that we have grown the number of members under coverage by over 200%, while four families have so far benefited from insurance claims, reinforcing our commitment to the well-being of our practitioners.
- Building a Strong Network of Corporate and Institutional Sponsors: We worked tirelessly to build and maintain strategic partnerships with corporate and institutional sponsors, ensuring increased support for NANTAP and its programs. In the last 7 years of my tenure as NANTAP President, we have enjoyed the unwavering support of the following institutions and organisations – NCAC, NFVCB, National Theatre, NCC, Leadway Assurance Plc, Royal Roots Communication, Zmirage and Zuri Communications.
- Revitalization and Expansion of State and International Chapters: We resuscitated five inactive state chapters- Ekiti, Kaduna, Anambra, Imo, Kwara, established three new ones – Sokoto, Kano and Bayelsa, and activated the UK and Canada Chapels, expanding NANTAP’s reach beyond national borders.
- Capacity Building and Professional Development: Through series of workshops, training programs, and mentorship initiatives, we equipped members with essential skills in arts management, business, funding, acting, safety, and arts reporting. This has empowered our practitioners to compete on both national and international platforms.
- Establishment of TAP Business Ventures Limited: We launched TAP Business Ventures Limited, a fully owned business arm of NANTAP, designed to create sustainable revenue streams for the Association and enhance financial independence. Through a private offering, we successfully raised over 5 million from members as venture capital for TAP Business Ventures, demonstrating trust in our vision and reinforcing the culture of ownership within the Association.
- Reconstitution of the Board of Trustees (BoT): Ensuring a strong governance structure, we reconstituted the Board of Trustees (BoT), bringing in experienced professionals to provide strategic guidance for NANTAP’s future. The BoT now headed by Mr Mahmood Ali-Balogun, fta, our pioneer President and a seasoned practitioner. The board is today composed of Mrs. Toki Mabogunje, Mallam Nasir Danladi Bako, Mrs. Bolanle Austeen-Peters and Mr. Oludotun Osunsanya as the Secretary.
- Empowering Youth and Women in Leadership: We made deliberate efforts to increase youth and female participation in the leadership of our great Association, raising their representation in elective offices from 25% and 10% to 40% and 30%, respectively. This marks a significant step towards inclusivity and diversity in our leadership structure.
Call on Government and Stakeholders
While we have made remarkable progress, there is still much to be done. Our creative industry holds immense potential for national development, and we call on the government, corporate bodies, and private investors to play their part in its growth.
- A New Cultural Policy: We urgently need an updated Cultural Policy that reflects the realities of the modern creative industry and provides a roadmap for sustainable growth.
- Better Funding for the Arts: Government and financial institutions must prioritize funding for the arts, ensuring that creative professionals have access to grants, loans, and investment opportunities. In this vein, I make bold to say that we, as an Association, frown at the recent Intervention by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) through his Special Assistant on Digital & Creative Economy which completely omitted the Performing Arts from its beneficiaries. I want to believe that it was an oversight that would be corrected subsequently.
- Incentives for Private Investment in the Performing Arts: Policies should be put in place to encourage private-sector investment in theatre and performing arts, making it a more attractive and viable industry for investors.
- Improved Infrastructure for the Arts: Both the government and the private sector must invest in infrastructure that will enhance theatre production and audience engagement. Modern theatres, performance spaces, and training centers are essential for growth. Government must be deliberate in encouraging private sector investment in infrastructure development for the Arts.
- Commissioning of the National Theatre: It is of great concern that nearly two years after renovations were completed, the National Theatre remains under lock and key, unutilised. We therefore, call on the relevant authorities to act swiftly and ensure that this iconic cultural landmark is fully operational for the benefit of the creative industry.
Appreciation and Acknowledgment
As I conclude my tenure, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to every individual, institution, and partner who has walked this journey with me.
To my fellow members of the National Executive Council (NEC), and our esteemed leaders in state chapters across the federation and in the diaspora, I say thank you for your dedication, hardwork, and belief in our shared vision.
Immense gratitude to our corporate sponsors and institutional partners. I do not take for granted, your believe in our vision. Your steadfast support has been invaluable in driving our programs forward, leading to the milestones we recorded over the years.
To the incoming leadership of NANTAP, I extend my best wishes. The responsibility now rests on your shoulders to build upon the foundations we have laid. Lead with courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the growth of our industry. Particularly, I urge you to pursue to a logical conclusion the TAPCON Bill initiated by this administration with the National Assembly since the 8th Assembly.
To the entire theatre community, my journey with NANTAP does not end here. I remain committed to our cause and will continue to contribute my expertise and passion to the advancement of Nigerian theatre and the creative industry.
Finally, to my family, my loving wife and children who made great sacrifices, encouraged and supported me, I owe you a debt of gratitude. Without you, I could not have done this. Like I promised seven years ago when you graciously gave me permission to embark on this journey, I am back home for you guys. I love you.
CLOSING REMARKS
In closing, tonight, as I take my final bow as President, I do so with immense pride and gratitude to God Almighty. NANTAP has been my home, my passion, and my mission. I leave this office knowing that together, we have built something lasting—something that will continue to inspire generations to come.
As I step down, allow me to leave you with the words of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: “Leadership is not about individual success, but about creating pathways for others to thrive. The best leaders build institutions, inspire confidence, and leave behind a legacy of progress.”
I urge us all to continue building, inspiring, and ensuring that the future of Nigerian theatre remains bright
Long Live NANTAP!
Long Live Nigerian Theatre!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Thank you, and God bless you all.
ISRAEL EBOH, fta
National President
