President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday, describing the renowned playwright and activist as one of Nigeria’s greatest intellectuals and a living symbol of courage, wisdom and unwavering commitment to justice.
In a goodwill message issued on Sunday to commemorate Soyinka’s birthday, the President praised the literary icon for his decades-long contributions to literature, democracy, human rights and nation-building, saying his influence continues to inspire generations both within Nigeria and across the world.
Tinubu described Soyinka as an extraordinary figure whose remarkable career has transcended literature to shape national and global conversations on freedom, governance and social justice.
“Exceptional individuals like Professor Soyinka do not come often in a generation—men who illuminate the paths for humanity to follow across diverse endeavours, who are not afraid to go against convention, and who do not let the man die in the face of oppression and injustice,” the President said.
Celebrating a Literary Giant
The President commended Soyinka’s outstanding achievements across multiple fields, highlighting his work as a playwright, novelist, poet, essayist, actor, composer, documentarian and advocate for good governance.
Tinubu also reflected on Soyinka’s historic achievement in 1986, when he became the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, describing the honour as a landmark moment not only for Nigeria but for the entire African continent.
He further acknowledged several prestigious international honours awarded to the literary icon over the years, including the Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature, the Academy of Achievement Golden Plate Award, the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for Lifetime Achievement, and the Europe Theatre Prize (Special Prize).
Tribute to a Pro-Democracy Advocate
Beyond his literary accomplishments, Tinubu praised Soyinka’s longstanding role in Nigeria’s democratic struggle, particularly his resistance to military rule and his advocacy for civil liberties.
The President recalled Soyinka’s active participation in the campaign to restore democracy during the June 12 struggle, noting that both men stood on the same side in opposing authoritarian rule.
“I also 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 stated.
‘A National Treasure’
Describing Soyinka as one of Nigeria’s “living repositories of history, knowledge and courage,” Tinubu said the Nobel laureate’s continued presence remains an invaluable asset to the country.
He thanked the elder statesman for his enduring belief in Nigeria and for consistently offering thoughtful guidance on national issues.
“Today, I salute one of our nation’s living repositories of history, knowledge, and courage. That he is with us is a gift we will always treasure. I thank him for his undying faith in the Nigerian project and wise counsel,” the President said.
Wishes for Continued Good Health
Tinubu concluded his tribute by celebrating Soyinka’s lasting influence on writers, academics, public intellectuals and human rights advocates around the world.
He prayed for many more years of good health and continued service, describing the celebrated author—popularly known as “Kongi”—as a national icon whose legacy will continue to shape future generations.
“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. I wish Kongi many more years in excellent health,” the President added.
