President Bola Tinubu has celebrated Nobel Prize-winning writer, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, describing him as a distinguished global figure and one of Nigeria’s greatest literary treasures.
The President conveyed his goodwill message in a statement personally signed and issued on Sunday in Abuja, praising Soyinka’s exceptional courage, intellectual depth and unwavering commitment to justice and good governance.
Tinubu said individuals with Soyinka’s impact are rare, noting that the playwright’s lifelong efforts had inspired humanity across different fields.
According to the President, Soyinka’s willingness to challenge injustice and stand against oppression has made him a symbol of courage and integrity.
He congratulated the literary icon, whose contributions span playwriting, poetry, novels, essays and activism, while recalling his historic achievement as the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986.
Tinubu also acknowledged Soyinka’s global recognition, including awards such as the Benson Medal, Academy of Achievement Golden Plate Award and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for Lifetime Achievement.
The President highlighted Soyinka’s long-standing opposition to military rule in Nigeria and his involvement in the struggle for democracy, particularly during the June 12 movement.
“I 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,” Tinubu said.
He described Soyinka as one of Nigeria’s living custodians of history, knowledge and courage, adding that his presence remains a valuable gift to the nation.
Tinubu expressed appreciation for Soyinka’s continued commitment to Nigeria and his contributions to national discourse through his counsel and advocacy.
He further noted that Soyinka’s writings and activism have shaped generations of writers, academics and campaigners around the world.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu wished the renowned author, popularly known as “Kongi,” many more years of good health and fulfilment.