By Erewunmi Peace

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded Nobel laureate and literary icon Wole Soyinka as an “uncommon patriot” in a warm tribute marking the celebrated playwright’s 91st birthday.

In an official statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Soyinka as a “well-decorated literary giant, activist, and public intellectual”, whose enduring contributions to education, human rights, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building continue to inspire Nigerians and audiences worldwide .

“I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development. Professor Soyinka is an uncommon patriot who has continued to demonstrate his undying love for our country,” the statement read .

At 91, Soyinka remains a revered figure, the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986, with a vast body of work spanning plays, memoirs, poetry, and essays .

Highlighting their personal rapport, President Tinubu said, “I value my association with Professor Soyinka and several collaborations to advance the progress and development of Nigeria,” and wished him good health and many more years in sound mind .

As the country celebrates one of its most eminent literary voices, the tribute underscores Soyinka’s role not only in Nigerian letters but also in advocacy for democracy, cultural identity, and justice—a legacy Tinubu emphasized as critical to the nation’s cultural and socio-political fabric.