Soyinka at 89: He’s source of inspiration, encouragement, says Tinubu

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake, on the celebration of Soyinka’s 89th birthday, President Tinubu said: “Today, I celebrate Nobel Laureate, elder statesman and pro-democracy activist, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on his attainment of 89 years of age.

“Renowned playwright, poet, novelist, Professor Soyinka has done a lot for Nigeria. In the literary world, he remains a giant, an Iroko. Importantly, his contributions to the struggle for the restoration and institutionalisation of democracy and good governance in Nigeria are indelible.

“Together, along with other activists, we fought for democracy under the aegis of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) at great risks to our personal lives.

“Professor Soyinka remains a beacon and a source of inspiration and support to many of us.

“As he attains 89 today, we pray that God Almighty grant him more years and strength so he can be around to witness the new Nigeria we are building in line with our Agenda for a Renewed Hope for the country, where security, prosperity and economic development will reign supreme.”

Also, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described Prof. Soyinka as “quintessential scholar and literary icon”.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the governor said: “He is a great pride to Nigeria, Africa and the entire black race. He is a renowned advocate of truth, justice and equity, and always aligns with the populace in the clamour for good governance across the nation and globally.

“He has demonstrated this on many occasions by lending his voice to national and global issues in favour of the masses.

“As Prof. Soyinka clocks 89, I wish him good health and more years of meritorious service to our dear country, Nigeria, the African continent and the world.”

Also, Akoki Aaron Mojolaoluwa, a Senior Secondary School (SS) 2 pupil of Adedokun International School at Ifo in Ogun State, has won the grand prize of the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange essay competition (WSICE 2023), according to a statement by organisers of the competition.

Olugbenga Dominion Mojolaoluwa of Salawu Abiola Comprehensive School (Senior) was the first runner-up, while Ezima Chinasa Margaret of Anglican Girls’ Grammar School (SNR) won the second runner-up prize.

Eleven entries were received from 50 schools from which 89 finalists were selected by a panel of literary workers and social workers.

The WSICE is the 14th edition of the annual youth mentoring and mental capacity development initiative.

This year’s was then 14 edition of the competition, which focused on Nation-Building, Good Governance, and National Development.

Pupils from different schools were required to explore Soyinka’s humanism, artistry, and nationalism in their thought process and writing.

The announcement of the essay winners coincided with the 89th birthday anniversary yesterday.

“We thank all schools and students for their participation and remain committed to our goal of fostering unity, bolstering integrity, and instilling qualities of good leadership as values,” said the Executive Producer of the annual WSICE, Dr. Teju Kareem.