President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on the occasion of his 90th birthday, describing him as a “remarkable patriot.”
In his message, Tinubu highlighted the literary icon’s enduring impact on education, pro-democracy advocacy, human rights, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building, noting that these contributions span several decades and remain highly commendable.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, the President said, “I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development.”
Tinubu added that Soyinka has consistently served as a source of inspiration for Nigerians and generations of writers across the globe who have followed in his footsteps and achieved international recognition.
He continued, “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.”
As Soyinka embarks on what Tinubu described as the “last decade of his centennial journey,” the President wished him continued good health and many more fulfilling years.
Soyinka, who made history in 1986 as the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, is renowned for his distinctive literary voice, reflected in his wide-ranging body of work that includes plays, poetry, memoirs, and essays.