“In the literary world, he remains a towering figure, an Iroko tree”, the president said in a tribute
In a statement released by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to the President, Special Duties, Communications & Strategy on Thursday, Tinubu referred to Soyinka as a brother and comrade in the struggle for the restoration and consolidation of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
The President commended Soyinka for his immense contributions to the country’s development.
According to the statement, Tinubu said, “Today, I celebrate Nobel Laureate, elder statesman, and pro-democracy activist, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on his 89th birthday.
“Renowned playwright, poet, and novelist, Professor Wole Soyinka has made significant contributions to Nigeria. In the literary world, he remains a towering figure, an Iroko tree.
“Equally important are his contributions to the fight for the restoration and institutionalisation of democracy and good governance in Nigeria, which are everlasting.
“Together, alongside other activists, we struggled for democracy under the banner of NADECO, at great personal risk.
“Professor Soyinka continues to be a guiding light and a source of inspiration and support for many of us.
“As he turns 89 today, we pray that God Almighty grants him more years and strength, so he may witness the new Nigeria we are constructing in accordance with our Agenda for a Renewed Hope for the nation, where security, prosperity, and economic development will reign supreme.”
