Tinubu Celebrates Wole Soyinka on 92nd Birthday

On July 13, President Bola Tinubu issued a statement celebrating Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday. Tinubu described Soyinka as a global icon whose contributions to literature, democracy, and human rights continue to inspire generations worldwide.

He praised Soyinka's lifelong commitment to justice, intellectual excellence, and good governance, highlighting his courage in confronting oppression. Tinubu noted Soyinka's significant stature as a literary giant and his role in Nigeria's democratic struggles, particularly his involvement in the June 12 pro-democracy movement against military dictatorship.

The president recalled Soyinka's historic achievement as the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 and acknowledged his numerous international honors, including the Benson Medal and the European Theatre Prize. Tinubu expressed gratitude for Soyinka's steadfast faith in the Nigerian project and wished him continued health and success.