President Bola Tinubu has announced that the National Theatre in Iganmu, Surulere, will be renamed the “Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts” to honour the famous writer Wole Soyinka on his 90th birthday.
In a personal statement, Tinubu called Soyinka a “national treasure and global icon” and praised his outstanding literary work and strong commitment to human dignity and justice. Tinubu expressed his admiration for Soyinka, noting that he was the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986. Tinubu emphasized that Soyinka’s 90th birthday is a significant milestone worthy of celebration.
He highlighted Soyinka’s contributions to literature, mentioning his early works like “The Lion and the Jewel” and “Death and the King’s Horseman,” as well as his recent “Interventions” series. Tinubu pointed out that Soyinka has inspired countless writers, scholars, and activists around the world.
The President also spoke about Soyinka’s brave stance against oppression and injustice. He recalled Soyinka’s attempt to mediate peace during the Nigerian Civil War in 1967, which led to his two-year detention.
“Wole Soyinka continues to be a guiding light for our nation,” Tinubu said. “He challenges us to confront tyranny and oppression and encourages us to strive for a better country.”
To mark Soyinka’s 90th birthday, a series of events will be held both locally and internationally. This includes a symposium and poetry reading in Rabat, Morocco, on July 9, organized by the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA).
