Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka Turns 90, Reflects on Life and Society

In a remarkable turn of events, Nobel laureate Prof Wole Soyinka, renowned for his literary prowess and social activism, has celebrated his 90th birthday in grand style. The occasion marked the 2024 edition of his International Cultural Exchange Programme, held at his ARI residence in Ijegba, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Soyinka, a literary giant and advocate for social justice, has led a life marked by his passion for writing and his commitment to correcting societal wrongs. In an exclusive interview, he revealed that he never imagined he would live to see the age of 90, stating, "I never thought I would make it this far."

The Nobel laureate attributed his decision to become a writer to the need to correct anomalies in the stories he heard during his childhood. He shared a fascinating anecdote about his actions during the military era, stating, "I never broke into a radio station, but sneaked in. The radio station was holding on to something that belonged to the people, and I decided to retrieve it. If that item had been played, it would have demoralized the people and established the culture of brutality."

Soyinka’s sharp wit and insight did not stop there. He took a scathing look at Nigerian society, lamenting that people often criticize the government without examining themselves. "We are always quick to point out the wrongs of the State, but we never look inwards," he said. According to him, crimes such as kidnapping and robbery are not driven by poverty or inequality, but by selfishness and the desire to live a luxurious lifestyle.

The 2024 Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Programme drew students from across the country, who participated in an essay competition on national and international topics. The event provided a platform for young minds to engage with pressing issues and exchange ideas, reflecting Soyinka’s commitment to fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and social responsibility.

As the Nobel laureate marks this significant milestone, his life and work serve as a testament to the power of literature and activism in shaping a better world.