President Buhari Greets Prof Duro Oni At 70

President Muhammadu Buhari has shared in the joy of celebration with family, friends and professional colleagues of Prof. Duro Oni, renowned scholar, publisher and administrator, who turns 70 on December 15, 2022.

President Buhari rejoiced with the Professor of Theatre Arts at the University of Lagos and President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, whose focus and dedication to research for close to five decades has expanded scope and practice of the performing arts, and deepened understanding of history, communication and development in Nigeria and beyond.

The President salutes Prof. Oni for bringing fresh insights and perspectives to the study of design and aesthetics, dramatic literature, cultural studies and criticism, and Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, which has since turned into a global attraction.

President Buhari noted the distinction in leadership and service to the nation as Prof. Oni held various positions within the university community and government, including Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services) of the University of Lagos, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization, pioneer Director of the Confucius Institute and Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Head of Department of Creative Arts, where he initiated and developed bachelor’s degree in Creative Arts and Chinese Studies.

As the scholar and administrator turns a septuagenarian, the President extolled his brilliance and resilience, especially in cultivating many talents in academia and Nollywood.

President Buhari prayed for the wellbeing of Prof. Oni and his family, while wishing the scholar all the best as he takes up new challenges in nation building at the landmark age.