President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka on his birthday, stating that he values his association with the literary titan.
This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
NPO reports that the literary icon who is a formidable presence in global literature turns 91 today.
Tinubu noted the contributions of him being the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986 to education, pro-democracy and human rights movements, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building over the last several decades.
President Tinubu commended Soyinka’s lifelong commitment to the nation’s development.
“I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development.
“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. “I value my association with Professor Soyinka and several collaborations to advance the progress and development of Nigeria.
“On this special day that marks the beginning of the journey into the last decade of his centennial, I wish Professor Wole Soyinka good health and more years in sound mind.”