President Tinubu Extols Wole Soyinka at 91st Birthday
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nobel Prize winning author Professor Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 91st birthday, portraying him as a paragon of literary brilliance, democratic activism, and unwavering patriotism.
In a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu celebrated Soyinka’s enduring contributions across the fields of literature, civic engagement, and nation-building.
The President described the elder statesman as an inspiring figure whose work continues to resonate with Nigerians and admirers worldwide.
Soyinka, who made history in 1986 as the first African recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature, has produced an extraordinary body of work spanning plays, essays, poetry, memoirs, and fiction that explores themes of justice, cultural identity and moral conscience. Tinubu’s tribute emphasised the depth of Soyinka’s artistic legacy and his influence on succeeding generations of writers and intellectuals.
Referencing their shared history in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggles, Tinubu paid tribute to Soyinka’s role in galvanising opposition under military rule.
Their collaboration during NADECO-led efforts following the annulled June 12, 1993 election remains a defining chapter in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
“Professor Soyinka exemplifies intellectual courage and artistic integrity,” the President stated. “His lifelong dedication to human dignity, justice, and education has made him an enduring light in our national journey.
Even at 91, he remains a source of inspiration not only to Nigerians, but to the global creative community.”
Last year, in celebration of his 90th birthday, President Tinubu renamed the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos as the “Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts” an homage to his profound impact on Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
More recently, Soyinka was honoured with the national award of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Democracy Day, joining other distinguished Nigerians recognised by Tinubu’s administration.
Born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Soyinka has authored more than 50 books over the decades, including celebrated titles such as “The Lion and the Jewel”, “Kongi’s Harvest”, and “Chronicles from the Land of the Happiest People on Earth”. His works remain staples in literary curricula and international discourse.
The President also took note of Soyinka’s resilience in recovering from prostate cancer and applauded his continued presence as a living testament to the power of the arts and intellectual activism. Tinubu extended heartfelt wishes for the Nobel laureate’s good health, clear mind, and long life.
In recent years, Soyinka has also become the subject of documentary films and retrospectives—including “Ebrohimie Road: A Museum of Memory”, which commemorates his time at the University of Ibadan and premiered during his 90th birthday festivities.
As Nigeria celebrates another year in the life of one of its most iconic cultural figures, the President’s message underscores the enduring legacy of Wole Soyinka: a life devoted to art, truth and the advancement of society.
This tribute arrives amid widespread admiration for Soyinka’s contributions to literature and democracy. His journey from Lagos to global stages continues to illuminate paths for writers, activists, and citizens across generations.
