President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on his 90th birthday anniversary, describing him as a remarkable patriot.
While extending his good wishes to Soyinka, Tinubu said the globally renowned literary icon’s contributions to education, pro-democracy and human rights movements, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building over several decades were worthy of note.
The President said the accomplished statesman was a massive source of inspiration to Nigerians and, most especially, generations of younger writers worldwide who, on their own, have also attained great national and international prominence.
“I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development,” Tinubu was quoted as saying in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday.
“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,” he added.
He wished the professor good health and many more years in sound mind.
Soyinka is the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature, a feat he achieved in 1986.
He is known for his unique literary style, evident in his plays, poems, memoirs, essays, and other artistic works.
