By: Mercy Igbekele
Professor Oluwole Akinwande Soyinka, popularly known as ‘Wole Soyinka’ a renowned Nigerian playwright, poet, and essayist, marks his 90th birthday today. This iconic figure has left an unforgettable impact on Nigeria, the globe and the literary world, and his life's work continues to inspire generations of writers, intellectuals, and activists.
Wole Soyinka was born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Nigeria. He grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. He attended the University of Ibadan and later went on to study at the University of Leeds in England. These formative years laid the foundation for his writing career, which would span over six decades.
From his early plays like "The Lion and the Jewel" to his poetry collections like "Idanre and Other Poems," he has explored themes of identity, culture, politics, and human existence. His essays equally have been impactful, offering incisive commentary on Nigerian politics and society.
Soyinka's influence extends far beyond the literary world. He has inspired generations of writers, thinkers, and activists across the globe.
Students’ Reflection
As Prof. Soyinka celebrates his 90th birthday, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko students have shared their thoughts, reflections and well-wishes.
Hammed Muhammed, a 200-level student of Mass Communication said he would like to grow more than Soyinka who is not only an icon, but also a herald of greatness.
He said, “Talking about the walk of life he decided to venture into, he not only secluded himself to writing alone but also makes his pen speak in other matters which are in one way or the other affecting the entire humanity, while this made him have won the Nobel prize on a platter of gold.”
He stressed that while emulating Soyinka's life, he has gained a lot of inspiration which has added significantly to his all-round development. “I held unto one of his quotes ‘I grew up in an atmosphere where words were an integral part of the culture’,” Muhammad quoted.
A student of Psychology at AAUA, Alexander Oluwafemi added that young ones can emulate the passion, consistency and eagerness of this great iconic figure.
“From the first time I read (The Interpreters by Wole Soyinka 1965) I learnt about the traditional heritage as well as the neo-colonial mismanagement of Nigeria's post. I would have loved to be like Wole Soyinka but his energy, consistency and willpower are far away from this world” Oluwafemi said.
Another student, Adejumo Joshua, a 400-level student of Physics and Electronic Department noted that Soyinka's life stories motivate him to study hard.
“I also read ‘Death and the King's Horseman by Wole Soyinka". Although I couldn't complete the reading I learnt that in all ways, ensure you do good things to other people, be kind to them because you can predict the future,” Adejumo affirmed.
He added that Soyinka's outspoken advocacy for social justice and human rights is worth emulating, advising all to imbibe his consistent challenge to oppressive regimes, championing the causes of marginalised communities.
In an exclusive interview with Echo Media, a literature lecturer at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Dr Stephen Ajimisan stated that Soyinka's contribution to African and world literature is immense.
Ajimisan noted that Soyinka's work has had a profound impact on the literary landscape, citing his versatility as a poet, playwright, and dramatist.
“His contribution to African literature or world literature in English is immense,” he said. Every time he speaks about any national issue, the whole world has to stand and listen," he said.
When asked about advice for young artists and authors seeking to make a similar impact, Ajimisan emphasized the importance of determination, encouraging young people to strive to be the change they want to see.
"Wole Soyinka's rise from humble beginnings to global leadership is a motivation. A village boy can wake up someday from nobody to become somebody, to become a global leader,” Ajimisan advised.
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