Tinubu Celebrates Wole Soyinka at 91, Hails Nobel Laureate as Global Icon and Inspiration

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate and globally acclaimed literary figure, Professor Wole Soyinka, as he marked his 91st birthday on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the renowned playwright, poet, essayist, and activist for his lifetime of groundbreaking contributions to literature, culture, education, human rights, and national development. He described Soyinka as an “uncommon patriot” and “towering figure” whose works and activism have had a lasting influence both in Nigeria and across the globe.

“Professor Soyinka, a well-decorated literary giant, activist, cultural icon, and public intellectual, who turns 91, is known for his extraordinary creative and artistic talent, evident in his plays, poems, memoirs, essays, and other artistic productions,” the statement read.

Soyinka, who in 1986 became the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, remains one of the most revered voices in global literary and intellectual circles. His works, which span several decades, have tackled pressing social and political themes including justice, identity, tyranny, freedom, and governance, often holding a mirror to Nigerian society while sparking conversations on a global scale.

President Tinubu recognized these contributions, lauding the octogenarian as a lifelong advocate for democracy, education, and cultural diplomacy. The President noted that Soyinka’s writings and public engagements have provided intellectual fuel for social movements and generations of writers, activists, and thinkers both within and outside Nigeria.

“President Tinubu notes the contributions of the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986 to education, pro-democracy and human rights movements, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building over the last several decades,” the statement continued.

Personal Reflections and National Gratitude

Reflecting on his personal relationship and collaborations with the esteemed laureate, President Tinubu acknowledged Soyinka’s role as a moral compass and thought leader whose voice has consistently championed the cause of justice, truth, and national unity.

“I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development,” President Tinubu stated.

“Professor Soyinka is an uncommon patriot who has continued to demonstrate his undying love for our country. Even at the grand old age, he continues to be a source of inspiration to fellow citizens and people around the world. We are grateful for his long years of service to Nigeria and humanity.”

Tinubu added that Soyinka’s commitment to Nigeria’s progress has remained steadfast, transcending politics and personal interests, driven instead by a profound belief in the nation’s potential for transformation.

“I value my association with Professor Soyinka and several collaborations to advance the progress and development of Nigeria,” he said.

As Soyinka embarks on what the President called “the last decade of his centennial,” he extended his best wishes for the laureate’s continued good health and mental vitality.

“On this special day that marks the beginning of the journey into the last decade of his centennial, I wish Professor Wole Soyinka good health and more years in sound mind.”

Born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Wole Soyinka’s distinguished career spans over six decades and includes more than 30 published works of drama, fiction, memoir, and critical essays. A relentless voice for justice, he has never shied away from confronting authoritarianism and corruption, even at great personal cost—including imprisonment during Nigeria’s civil war.

Soyinka’s influence extends far beyond the literary world. He has been actively involved in various pro-democracy movements and has consistently engaged in nation-building initiatives, serving as a guiding light for civic and political engagement.

As Nigeria and the global literary community celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Wole Soyinka at 91, tributes continue to pour in, reaffirming his status as one of Africa’s greatest intellectuals and a custodian of cultural and ethical consciousness.

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