President describes literary icon as a priceless national treasure, praises his lifelong fight for justice, democracy and good governance.
President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s greatest national treasures and a symbol of courage, knowledge and patriotism.
In a congratulatory message on Monday, President Tinubu hailed the celebrated playwright, scholar and pro-democracy activist for his unwavering commitment to justice, good governance and the Nigerian project.
The President said Soyinka’s continued presence remains a priceless gift to the nation, thanking him for his enduring faith in Nigeria and his wise counsel over the years.
President Tinubu also joined the international community in celebrating Soyinka’s remarkable contributions to literature, scholarship and human rights, noting that the literary icon has inspired generations of writers, academics and activists across the world.
Describing Soyinka as a rare individual who has consistently stood against oppression and injustice, the President said his life and works continue to illuminate the path for humanity.
President Tinubu recalled Soyinka’s historic achievement in 1986 as the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature and acknowledged his numerous international honours, including the Benson Medal of the Royal Society of Literature and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for Lifetime Achievement.
The President also paid tribute to Soyinka’s role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement, recalling that both of them stood together during the June 12 struggle against military dictatorship to restore democratic rule in the country.
He wished the renowned dramatist, poet and essayist many more years of good health and continued impact on Nigeria and the global community.