President Bola Tinubu on Thursday felicitated Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 89th birthday.
In a statement by his spokesman Dele Alake, Tinubu described Soyinka as a veritable source of support, inspiration and encouragement.
The president called Soyinka a brother and comrade in the struggle for the restoration and entrenchment of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
He commended the literary icon for his immense contributions to the country’s development.
“Today, I celebrate Nobel Laureate, elder statesman and pro-democracy activist, Prof. Wole Soyinka on his attainment of 89 years.
“Renowned playwright, poet, novelist, Prof. Wole Soyinka has done a lot for Nigeria. In the literary world, he remains a giant, an Iroko.
“Importantly, his contributions to the struggle for the restoration and institutionalisation of democracy and good governance in Nigeria are indelible.
“Together, along with other activists, we fought for democracy under the aegis of NADECO at great risks to our personal lives,” said Tinubu.
SEE ALSO:
Soyinka condemns video of Pyrates Confraternity mocking Tinubu
Tinubu: I’m not interested in politics in land of the dead – Soyinka
The president added that Soyinka remained a beacon and source of inspiration and support to many.
Tinubu prayed for long life and strength for Soyinka to continue to contribute to national and international discourse.
“We pray that God almighty grants him more years and strength so he can be around to witness the new Nigeria we are building in line with our agenda for a renewed hope for the country, where security, prosperity and economic development will reign supreme,” he said.
