President Tinubu Renames National Theatre to Honor Wole Soyinka
In a letter addressed to Professor Soyinka, President Tinubu expressed admiration for the literary giant’s achievements and global impact. The announcement comes amidst a series of local and international celebrations marking Soyinka’s milestone birthday. Recently, a symposium and poetry reading were held in Rabat, Morocco, organized by the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), highlighting Soyinka’s profound influence on literature and activism.
Professor Wole Soyinka, the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, is celebrated not only for his literary prowess but also for his resilience in overcoming challenges like prostate cancer. President Tinubu praised Soyinka’s contributions as a playwright, actor, poet, human rights activist, and political commentator, noting his unwavering commitment to justice and equity.
“Professor Soyinka is a towering figure, a Renaissance man whose influence extends far beyond Nigeria to the global stage,” President Tinubu remarked. “His courageous stance against tyranny and oppression, from apartheid in South Africa to systemic racism in the United States, has made him a beacon of truth and justice.”
Reflecting on their shared history during Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, President Tinubu highlighted Soyinka’s pivotal role in advocating for human rights and democracy, particularly during the tumultuous period following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. Despite facing personal risks and exile, Soyinka’s leadership in organizations like NALICON and NADECO galvanized international support for democratic reforms in Nigeria.
“As we celebrate his 90th birthday, we honor Professor Soyinka for his enduring spirit and his belief in the transformative power of literature and drama,” President Tinubu concluded. “He remains an inspiration to writers, scholars, and activists worldwide, reminding us all that art can be a potent force for social change.”
The renaming of the National Theatre to the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts symbolizes Nigeria’s recognition of Soyinka’s legacy and his ongoing influence on generations of artists and thinkers.
