President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 90th birthday anniversary, hailing him as a remarkable patriot and a towering figure in Nigeria’s history.
In a statement released on Sunday, July 13, 2025, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Soyinka’s lifelong contributions to education, pro-democracy and human rights movements, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building.
He described the literary icon as a massive source of inspiration to Nigerians and to generations of younger writers worldwide who have also achieved national and international acclaim.
“I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development,” the President said. “Professor Soyinka is an uncommon patriot who has continued to demonstrate his undying love for our country.
Even at the grand old age, he continues to be a source of inspiration to fellow citizens and people around the world. We are grateful for his long years of service to Nigeria and humanity.”
President Tinubu wished Professor Soyinka good health and many more years of sound mind.
Professor Wole Soyinka made history as the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986, a testament to his outstanding literary achievements and global influence. His work and activism have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and the world.
