‘A gift we will always treasure’: Tinubu pays glowing tribute to Soyinka at 92

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday, describing him as a rare global icon whose life has inspired generations through literature, courage and an unwavering commitment to justice.

In a statement issued on Sunday to mark Soyinka’s birthday on July 13, Tinubu said the renowned playwright and activist belongs to a class of extraordinary individuals whose influence transcends generations.

“Today, I celebrate a global icon and our nation’s literary star, Professor Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, July 13,” the President said.

He added: “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.”

Tinubu praised Soyinka’s remarkable accomplishments in literature and the arts, as well as his advocacy for democracy and accountable leadership.

“I congratulate this globally celebrated playwright, novelist, poet, essayist, actor, singer, composer, documentarian, and irrepressible advocate of good governance,” he said.

The President also reflected on Soyinka’s landmark achievements, especially his historic Nobel Prize in Literature.

“I recall his winning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, becoming the first African to win the Prize in that category, as well as many other reputable awards, such as the Benson Medal from the Royal Society of Literature; the Academy of Achievement Golden Plate Award; the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award (Lifetime Achievement); and the Europe Theatre Prize (Special Prize),” Tinubu stated.

Highlighting Soyinka’s long record of resistance against authoritarian rule, Tinubu recalled that they both played active roles during the struggle to restore democracy after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

“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,” he said.

Describing the Nobel laureate as one of Nigeria’s greatest national treasures, the President expressed gratitude for Soyinka’s enduring contributions to the country.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The President also acknowledged Soyinka’s lasting impact on writers, academics and pro-democracy campaigners across the world.

“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,” he added.