By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nobel Laureate, Professor Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, describing him as an exceptional global icon whose contributions to literature, democracy and humanity continue to inspire generations across the world.
In a statement issued on Sunday to mark the literary giant’s birthday on July 13, the President praised Soyinka’s lifelong commitment to justice, intellectual excellence and good governance, noting that his courage in confronting oppression has made him one of Nigeria’s most revered national figures.
Tinubu said individuals of Soyinka’s stature are rare, describing him as a man who consistently illuminates the path for humanity through his diverse accomplishments and unwavering refusal to bow to injustice.
The President celebrated Soyinka’s remarkable achievements as a playwright, novelist, poet, essayist, actor, singer, composer, documentarian and outspoken advocate of good governance.
He also recalled Soyinka’s historic emergence as the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, as well as his numerous international honours, including the Benson Medal of the Royal Society of Literature, the Academy of Achievement Golden Plate Award, the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for Lifetime Achievement, and the Europe Theatre Prize Special Prize.
Tinubu paid tribute to Soyinka’s role in Nigeria’s democratic struggles, particularly his resistance to military dictatorship and his involvement in the June 12 pro-democracy movement.
“I also recall Professor Soyinka’s valiant struggle against military dictatorship for decades, and his efforts in the June 12 struggle, for which we were both in the trenches,” the President said.
Describing the celebrated author as one of Nigeria’s living repositories of history, knowledge and courage, Tinubu thanked him for his steadfast faith in the Nigerian project and for his wise counsel over the years.
“As he marks this birthday, I join the world in celebrating his profound influence on generations of writers, scholars, and activists, as well as his sacrifices for our nation. I wish ‘Kongi’ many more years in excellent health,” the President said.
