Kongi at 91: Ogun authors echo Soyinka’s brilliance in birthday tribute

Renowned authors in Ogun State, under the collective banner of the South West Authors Forum (SWAF) and the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Ogun State Chapter, have extended their heartfelt felicitations to Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, as he celebrates his 91st birthday.

In a commemorative statement released on Sunday and signed by Dr. Chris Omotosho President of SWAF and Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of ANA the literary community expressed profound admiration for Professor Soyinka’s life, his literary legacy, and his unwavering commitment to humanity.

Dr. Omotosho described Soyinka as an “iconic and multi-talented literary giant,” referring to him as “God’s special gift to humanity.”

The statement conveyed the collective sentiment of awe and gratitude from writers across the region, recognizing Soyinka’s monumental impact on literature, drama, and intellectual thought both within Nigeria and internationally.

The literary organizations used the celebratory occasion to emphasize the importance of sustaining the annual Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature, which has grown to become one of the most prestigious literary awards on the continent.

The prize, which has been instrumental in inspiring new generations of African writers, is described as a deeply personal and cherished initiative by the Nobel Laureate himself.

The authors pledged to support and preserve the prize as a way of immortalizing Soyinka’s enduring contributions to all genres of literature.

As part of the celebrations, the July Business Meeting and literary readings organized by ANA Ogun were dedicated entirely to honoring Professor Soyinka.

During the event, there were readings from some of his most celebrated works, allowing both established and budding writers to reflect on his creative genius.

These sessions were accompanied by a stream of glowing tributes, underscoring his industry, creativity, ingenuity, and lifelong advocacy for social justice and human rights.

Dr. Omotosho highlighted the pride that the Ogun literary community takes in claiming Soyinka as one of their own.

He praised Soyinka as an indefatigable and cerebral figure whose influence cuts across literature, politics, activism, and cultural preservation.

Describing him as a playwright, poet, essayist, actor, theatre director, and a fearless crusader for human rights, the ANA Chairman noted with admiration that Soyinka continues to thrive intellectually and creatively, even at the remarkable age of 91.

The celebratory message concluded with warm wishes for continued good health, a sound mind, and many more fruitful years of service to humanity.

Referring to Soyinka by his revered traditional title, “Kongi,” the statement closed with an uplifting birthday wish to the globally respected literary icon, affirming his legacy as a beacon of knowledge, courage, and artistic brilliance.