Professor Wole Soyinka's 90th Birthday Celebrated with Arts Exhibition Launched By Alake of Egba Land

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Abeokuta, Ogun State – Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, inaugurated an art exhibition at the June 12 Cultural Center, Abeokuta, in celebration of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija reports that the exhibition, titled “Wole Soyinka In The Lens of Artists,” showcases over 58 artistic drawings and exhibitors by the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Ogun State Chapter, chaired by Dr. Oladimeji Oluwagbenga.

In the Alake's opening remarks, he lauded Soyinka’s contributions to Nigerian and global literature, calling him a “literary giant, icon of intellectualism, and champion of human rights.” 

He congratulated Soyinka on his milestone birthday and expressed gratitude for his relentless dedication to humanity’s advancement. 

The Alake also urged parents to foster their children’s talents and passions, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the creative industry. 

“We must encourage our children to explore their creative talents and provide them with the necessary support and resources to grow and succeed,” he stated.

Dr. Oladimeji Oluwagbenga, Chairman of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Ogun State Chapter, expressed gratitude for the Alake’s support and patronage of the arts and commended the artists and curators for their efforts.

Dr Oluwagbenga said, “As we gather here today, we are not only celebrating Professor Wole Soyinka’s achievements but also recognize the profound impact he has had on our lives and work. We are grateful for his contributions to Nigerian and world literature, and we honor his legacy by continuing to create, inspire, and push the boundaries of artistic expression.”

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, for his support and patronage of the arts. I also commend our artists and curators who have worked tirelessly to make this exhibition a success," Oluwagbenga appreciate Alake and the artists. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija further reports that the exhibition features a diverse array of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, all celebrating the life and legacy of Professor Wole Soyinka. 

These pieces, created by various Nigerian artists, offer unique perspectives on Soyinka’s life, work, and impact. The event attracted dignitaries, including traditional rulers, Government officials, artists, and literary enthusiasts.

As gathered by OPEN TELEVISION Naija, the Arts  Exhibition which ran till July 13, was made open to the public as a unique creative way of celebrating Soyinka’s 90th birthday in line with his enduring legacy and impact on Nigerian and world literature. This art exhibition serves as a fitting tribute to a man who has inspired generations through his writing, activism, and leadership.

Wole Soyinka, born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, is a distinguished Nigerian playwright, poet, essayist, and political activist. 

This Nobel Laureate is celebrated for his insightful exploration of Nigerian culture, politics, and history through his powerful and provocative works, garnering international recognition and acclaim.

Soyinka’s illustrious literary career spans over six decades, with notable plays including “The Lion and the Jewel” (1959), “The Trials of Brother Jero” (1960), “A Dance of the Forests” (1960), and “Death and the King’s Horseman” (1975). 

His poetry collections, such as “Mandela’s Earth and Other Poems” (1988) and “Samarkand and Other Markets I Have Known” (2002), alongside essays like “The Open Sore of a Continent” (1996) and memoirs like “Aké: The Years of Childhood” (1981) and “Isara: A Voyage Around Essay” (1990), further showcase his literary prowess.

In 1986, Soyinka was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, highlighting his significant contributions to world literature. Beyond his literary achievements, he is a staunch critic of political oppression and social injustice, actively participating in various movements, including protests against the Nigerian government’s execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa in 1995.

Soyinka, despite facing imprisonment for his activism and living in exile, remains a significant figure in both Nigerian and global literary communities. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the Commonwealth Poetry Prize (1986) and the Honorary Fellowship of the Modern Language Association (1990). 

As a professor emeritus at Harvard University, Soyinka has also taught at various institutions worldwide. 

Despite his numerous accolades, Soyinka stays humble, dedicated to leveraging his writing and activism to champion social justice and human rights.