Celebrating a Literary Giant: Professor Wole Soyinka at 90





As the world joins in celebrating the 90th birthday of Professor Wole Soyinka, we reflect on the monumental contributions of this literary titan and human rights advocate. Soyinka's life and works have left an indelible mark on literature, culture, and social justice, and his influence continues to resonate across generations and continents.



Born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Soyinka's journey has been one of relentless pursuit of truth and justice. As the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, he has elevated African literature on the global stage. His works, such as "A Dance of the Forests," "Death and the King's Horseman," and "The Man Died," are not just literary masterpieces but also powerful commentaries on societal issues.



Soyinka's dedication to human rights is as profound as his literary genius. Throughout his life, he has stood against oppression and injustice, often at great personal risk. His activism during the Nigerian civil war and his outspoken criticism of corrupt regimes have made him a symbol of resistance and courage. His relentless fight for democracy and human dignity has inspired countless individuals to stand up for their rights and speak truth to power.



In a fitting tribute, President Bola Tinubu acknowledged Soyinka's unwavering commitment to justice and his significant contributions to literature. Tinubu announced the renaming of the National Theatre in Iganmu, Surulere, to The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, a testament to Soyinka's enduring legacy.



"Tomorrow, July 13th, will be the climax of the series of local and international activities held in his honour. To underscore the literary giant's global relevance, a symposium and poetry reading were held in Rabat, Morocco, on 9 July," Tinubu noted. "Professor Soyinka, the first African to win the Nobel Literature Prize in 1986, deserves all the accolades as he marks the milestone of 90 years on earth."



Professor Soyinka's resilience and indomitable spirit are evident in his personal battles, including his triumph over prostate cancer. This milestone birthday is not just a celebration of his longevity but a recognition of his relentless spirit and the profound impact of his work. His literary achievements and advocacy for human dignity and justice continue to inspire millions worldwide.



Former Nigerian President Atiku Abubakar, in his congratulatory message, eloquently captured the essence of Soyinka's life and legacy: "To truly celebrate Prof Wole Soyinka, you must set forth at dawn. And that would be after a telephone conversation. The man of Ake, despite all the trials of Brother Jero, and at a prime age of 90, remains a virile hunter in our Forest of a Thousand Daemons. Neither death nor the king’s horseman has stopped The Interpreter from his bountiful Kongi’s Harvest and the chronicles of his happy life on earth. Yet, The Man Lives, even in this season of anomy."



Omoyele Sowore also paid tribute to Soyinka, highlighting his fearless and revolutionary spirit: "Happy 90th Birthday to the quintessential, fearless, inimitable, talented, intelligent, inspiring, resilient and revolutionary Prof. Wole Soyinka!"



As we celebrate Professor Soyinka's 90th birthday, we honor not just his literary brilliance but his unwavering dedication to fighting for justice and human rights. His life's work reminds us that literature and drama are powerful tools for challenging the status quo and advocating for a better world.



Happy birthday and congratulations, Professor Wole Soyinka. May you continue to inspire and enlighten us for many more years to come.

What do you think about Professor Wole Soyinka ❤️, Do you also consider him a hero? Let's hear your thoughts. I published the full article on my blog.


Credit: https://www.mavisblog.com.ng/2024/07/tinubu-atiku-sowore-celebrate-prof-wole.html?m=1

Tinubu fit be president, no blame am, na 16 years of PDP spoil things.

Tinubu is a great leader, unlike Atiku and Sowore, who lack achievements.

Tinubu no be president of Naija. E dey 90, na true. No spread fake news.

COMRADES, Soyinka is a cone man, Tinubu used the renaming of National Theatre to shut his mouth