- Tinubu Celebrates Wole Soyinka at 91
- Praises him as a patriot and source of inspiration
- “Even at the grand old age, he continues to be a source of inspiration to fellow citizens”
By Grateful Ogunjebe
President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt greetings to Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on the occasion of his 91st birthday.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Soyinka a globally celebrated literary figure and Africa’s first Nobel Prize winner in Literature, marks another year of life and legacy.
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In a statement issued on Saturday, President Tinubu described Soyinka as a patriot, mentor, and creative force whose works and activism have shaped Nigeria’s cultural and democratic landscape.
He hailed the author for his decades of contributions to education, democracy, human rights, and global literature.
“Professor Soyinka is an uncommon patriot who has continued to demonstrate his undying love for our country,” Tinubu said.
“Even at the grand old age, he continues to be a source of inspiration to fellow citizens and people around the world.”
The President praised Soyinka’s creative talent seen in his poetry, plays, essays, and memoirs and his enduring influence on younger generations of Nigerian and international writers.
He acknowledged their personal friendship and past collaborations for Nigeria’s progress.
“As he enters the final decade before his centennial, I wish him continued good health and more years in sound mind,” Tinubu added.
Wole Soyinka became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 and has remained one of the continent’s most respected voices in literature and public life.
His works span themes of justice, identity, freedom, and social responsibility.
The presidency’s tribute reaffirms Soyinka’s towering status as a moral compass and cultural beacon in Nigeria and beyond.
