President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on his 91 birthday describing the literary icon as an enduring source of inspiration.
Professor Soyinka, a well-decorated literary giant, activist, cultural icon, and public intellectual, is known for his extraordinary creative and artistic talent, evident in his plays, poems, memoirs, essays and other artistic productions.
President Tinubu notes the contributions of the first African to win the Noble Prize for Literature in 1986 and to education, pro-democracy, and nation-building over the last decades.
He describes Professor Soyinka as a massive source of inspirational to Nigerians and, most especially, generations of younger writers worldwide who, on their own, have also attained great national and international prominence.
President Tinubu acknowledges his decades of association, friendship, and collaboration with the accomplished statesman.
‘I rejoice with Noble Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development. 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.
“I value my association with Professor Soyinka and several collaborators to advance the progress and development of Nigeria.
“On this special day that marks the beginning of the journey into the blast decade of his centennial, I wish Professor Soyinka good health and more years of sound mind”, he said
-9News Nigeria.
