Soyinka gave the advice on Thursday, November 12, 2026, during the opening ceremony of the department's golden jubilee celebration at the university's Pit Theatre, where he attended as a special guest of honour.

The renowned playwright, who served as the department's pioneer head, expressed his admiration for the transformation of the department and the Pit Theatre since his departure from the institution.

Reflecting on his connection with the department, Soyinka described the anniversary as a significant personal milestone, having been part of its establishment. He encouraged students and lecturers to remain open to new ideas, explaining that creativity and artistic development depend on the willingness to embrace change.

He noted that theatre was particularly inclusive because it brings together different forms of artistic expression, encourages collaboration and creates opportunities for people to exchange ideas.

Soyinka also used the occasion to acknowledge the contributions of the late Professor Ola Rotimi, whom he credited with laying important foundations for the department's theatrical activities.

He recalled Rotimi's role in developing the Ori Olokun Theatre, which attracted audiences and theatre groups beyond the university community, including international participants.

According to Soyinka, his own contribution focused more on developing the academic structure of the department, while Rotimi and his team had already established a vibrant theatrical tradition before his arrival.

Earlier, the Acting Head of the Department, Dr Toyin Bifarin-Ogundeji, described Soyinka's return as both an honour and a symbolic homecoming for the institution.

She said the department had spent five decades providing a platform where academic knowledge and practical theatrical experience work together to develop creative talents.

Bifarin-Ogundeji noted that the golden jubilee was not only an opportunity to celebrate past achievements but also a moment to consider the department's future and address challenges affecting its growth.

She identified the modernisation of studio equipment, improvement of technical facilities and renovation of the Pit Theatre as important priorities for sustaining the department's reputation as a leading centre for theatre education in Nigeria and Africa.

The acting head also called for stronger partnerships with university management, government institutions, corporate organisations and alumni to support the proposed improvements.

The anniversary programme, tagged 'The Jubilee in Four Acts', is expected to continue into 2027. An anniversary lecture has been scheduled for January 12, 2027, with renowned theatre practitioner Professor Bode Sowande expected to deliver the lecture.

The celebration will also feature a homecoming programme and gala bringing together former students, academics, theatre practitioners and other stakeholders to reflect on the department's contributions to Nigerian and African performing arts.

The department's golden jubilee marks five decades of training theatre professionals, developing creative scholarship and contributing to the growth of the country's cultural and entertainment industries.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia