Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has praised Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, calling him a literary icon and a steadfast advocate for social justice and human rights, whose influence spans the globe.
In a statement released on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, Governor Abiodun marked Soyinka’s 90th birthday with high accolades. He described Soyinka, the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, as “an icon, a literary giant, and a global ambassador of Nigeria.”
“Congratulations to Professor Soyinka on reaching the incredible milestone of 90 years! Throughout his lifetime, he has not only become a literary icon but also a voice for social justice and human rights,” Abiodun said. “His contributions to literature, theatre, and activism have left an indelible mark on the sands of history. Here’s to celebrating his remarkable achievements and wishing him many more years of inspiration and impact.”
Governor Abiodun highlighted Soyinka’s immense contributions to the development of literature, culture, and democracy in Nigeria and globally through his gifted writing and activism. He commended the legendary playwright, poet, and essayist for his unwavering commitment to the fight for social justice, human rights, and good governance over the past six decades.
“Soyinka’s legacy as a fearless, principled, and cerebral public intellectual will continue to inspire generations of both born and yet unborn Nigerians and Africans,” Abiodun noted.
The governor expressed his heartfelt wishes for the esteemed scholar’s continued good health, wisdom, and fulfillment as he celebrates his landmark 90th birthday.