President Buhari Eulogises Soyinka At 85

President Muhammadu Buhari, has sent warm greetings to Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, who turns 85 years on Saturday (today).

The President described the literary icon as a “universal brand” and one of Nigeria’s “greatest prides.”

A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, contained Buhari’s felicitations to Soyinka.

He noted that Soyinka did not only excel in the academia but had also earned himself respect for lending his voice at critical moments in the country’s history.

The President called Soyinka a man of “courage”, whose selflessness was worthy of emulation by the younger generation of Nigerians and Africans.

The message read in part, “President Buhari joins family and friends of the cerebral academic in celebrating the many years of laudable achievements, recognition, awards, and consistency, all which have cumulated in pride to Nigerians, Africans and the black race.

“The President salutes Prof Soyinka for his intellectual momentum, interventions on state issues and polity through articles and comments, penchant for justice, and persistence in holding leaders to account.

“As he clocks 85, President Buhari affirms that Prof Soyinka’s lifestyle sends a message to all Nigerians and Africans, especially the younger generation, that real success is measured by the intangibles of courage and impact brought to the life of others, rather than pursuit of personal interests.

“The President congratulates the literary giant for projecting Nigerian and African values to the world, wishing him more years of health, wisdom and service to the nation and humanity.”

Punch