Tinubu Celebrates Wole Soyinka's 92nd Birthday Tribute

On July 13, 2026, President Bola Tinubu issued a statement commemorating the 92nd birthday of Nobel Laureate Prof. Oluwol Babatunde Soyinka, recognizing him as a global literary icon. In a seven-paragraph tribute, Tinubu described Soyinka as a playwright, novelist, poet, essayist, actor, singer, composer, documentarian, and an irrepressible advocate for good governance.

He noted Soyinka's significant achievements, including being the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 and receiving various accolades such as the Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award. Tinubu praised Soyinka's courageous struggle against military dictatorship and his contributions to Nigeria's historical narrative.

The President also extended congratulations to Soyinka on his birthday, wishing him continued health and success. Additionally, Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of Kabir Shagaya, who celebrated his 40th birthday, in various sectors including agriculture and technology.