Amanze Chinonye
Nigeria’s literary titan and Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, today marked his 91st birthday, drawing tributes from leaders, writers, and admirers around the world.
Among the most prominent voices was that of President Tinubu, who hailed Soyinka as “an uncommon patriot” and “a global inspiration.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a press release signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extolled Soyinka’s enduring influence on literature, democracy, and national consciousness.
“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 said. “Even at the grand old age, he continues to be a source of inspiration to fellow citizens and people around the world.”
Soyinka, who became the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, is globally recognized for his searing plays, poetry, and essays, as well as his fearless activism during some of Nigeria’s most turbulent political eras.
President Tinubu noted his personal and professional relationship with the literary giant, describing decades of collaboration and friendship. “I value my association with Professor Soyinka and several collaborations to advance the progress and development of Nigeria,” he added.
As part of celebrations marking the milestone, cultural institutions across Nigeria and in the diaspora held readings of Soyinka’s iconic works, including Death and the King’s Horseman and The Man Died. In Abeokuta, Ogun State Soyinka’s hometown local artists and scholars gathered for a day-long festival honouring his legacy.
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Born on July 13, 1934, Soyinka’s contributions to education, human rights, and cultural diplomacy have remained central to Nigeria’s intellectual identity. His public interventions on governance and civil liberties continue to spark national debates, while his literary output influences generations of writers across the globe.
This year, the laureate is expected to release a new collection of essays, The Rebellious Muse, while a touring exhibition of his archives is scheduled to launch in Lagos in early 2026.
As he embarks on what President Tinubu described as “the journey into the last decade of his centennial,” Nigerians reflect not only on Soyinka’s towering legacy but also on his unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the written word.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
