Lagos: On Good Friday, Easter revellers flocked to the National Theatre and Leisure Mall, engaging in shopping and recreational activities as part of the holiday celebrations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports a festive atmosphere as families, youths, and children enjoyed both locations, taking photos and exploring.
At the National Theatre, visitors relaxed under trees, chatted, and bought refreshments from vendors.
Mrs Kemi Oladipo, a civil servant and mother who attended with her children, clarified that she selected the National Theatre because of its open space, which is suitable for family outings.
“I brought my children here so they can play and enjoy Easter.
“It is calm, and we can relax without spending too much,” she said.
Photographer Mr Michael Okeke, visiting as both a professional and a social guest, said he came to connect with friends and enjoy the fresh air.
“Public holidays like Easter give people time to relax.
“This place is good for that,” he said.
Another visitor, Miss Funmilayo Ajayi, a businessman, told NAN she came specifically for the anticipated stage performance of “Dis-Loyal Judas,” an opera focusing on faith, betrayal, and inspiration.
“I heard there will be a stage performance later. It sounds interesting, and I may stay back to watch,” she said.
A National Theatre official who requested anonymity said music star D’banj is scheduled to headline the main Easter event, The C.R.E.A.M Experience 3.0, at the Theatre, highlighting the Theatre’s entertainment focus for the festivities.
He said the event, headlined by D’banj, popularly known as “The Koko Master,” would also feature other artistes, including 2Baba and Wande Coal.
According to him, tickets for the event range from General Access at N30,000 to Kings Row at N200,000.
The official added that this concert, following the recent rehabilitation of the National Arts Theatre, is a major attraction central to the Easter celebrations and is expected to draw a substantial festive audience. Meanwhile, the celebrations extended to other parts of Lagos.
Meanwhile, at Leisure Mall Surulere, the festive spirit continued as shoppers filled stores and bought food and drinks.
Mrs Bose Adeyemi, a teacher, said she arrived early to avoid the crowd, but she still encountered many people.
“I came to buy things for the Easter celebration at home.
“Even though prices are high, we still want to celebrate,” she said.
A businessman, Mr Chinedu Okafor, who visited both as a shopper and a friend’s companion, said he came to the mall to purchase groceries and socialise.
“The place is very lively today. People are buying drinks, snacks and other items.
“After shopping, we plan to go somewhere else to relax,” he said.
Another reveller, Mr Ibrahim Lawal, identified as both a family man and regular visitor, said he combined his shopping trip with a family outing.
“I brought my family here to buy a few things and also allow the children to have fun.
“Places like this make holidays enjoyable,” he said.
NAN reports that food vendors and small businesses around the mall recorded increased patronage as visitors bought ice cream, snacks, and soft drinks.
Back at the National Theatre, the festivities continued; some children played around the open spaces, while others rode bicycles, contributing to the lively holiday mood.
Security personnel were stationed at both locations to ensure orderliness.
The Easter celebration is expected to continue as more residents in Lagos visit recreation centres during the holiday.
