President Bola Tinubu has immortalized Wole Soyinka‘s legacy by designating the N20 Arterial Road in Abuja, spanning from Northern Parkway to Outer Northern Expressway, in honor of the distinguished playwright and Nobel laureate.
This is to cement his place in Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
ATN, New York, reveals that the decision to name the highway after Wole Soyinka was made possible by the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s proposal, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, highlighting the administration’s dedication to recognizing excellence.
On Tuesday, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, used the X platform to announce the renaming of the highway to Professor Wole Soyinka Highway, a decision that solidifies Soyinka’s place in Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
By dedicating the highway to Soyinka, who will mark his 90th birthday on July 13, President Tinubu acknowledged the literary giant’s profound impact on Nigerian literature and his instrumental role in showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
The President recognized Soyinka’s profound influence, stating that his exceptional literary talent, coupled with his unrelenting commitment to human rights and social justice, has elevated Nigeria’s global standing and inspired countless individuals to embrace the power of literature as a catalyst for positive change.
Read also: Why I May Apply For Restoration Of My U.S Green Card — Soyinka
Tinubu added that the gesture is a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth, freedom, and artistic excellence.
“Professor Wole Soyinka has brought immense honour and fame to Nigeria through his unparalleled contributions to literature and his unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice.
“Naming this highway after him is a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth, freedom, and artistic excellence,” the president said.
Recall that Soyinka was under fire recently for saying that the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, was unfit to lead the country.
The poet highlighted the remarkable display of passion and principles by Obidients during the 2023 general elections, demonstrating a refreshing departure from the norm and inspiring hope for a brighter future in Nigeria.
The celebrated author criticized Obi for his apparent complicity in the online harassment of individuals with differing views, suggesting that this tacit endorsement of bullying disqualifies him from seeking the nation’s highest office.