The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has celebrated Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on his 92nd birthday, describing him as a global ambassador of Yoruba culture, intellectual excellence, and the rich heritage of the African people.
According to a statement on Monday evening and signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, said the Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), commended Prof. Soyinka’s exceptional contributions to literature, culture, education, and the promotion of African identity on the global stage.
The foremost African monarch described the literary icon as a rare embodiment of wisdom, creativity, and courage, whose life and works have continued to project the values, traditions, and cultural depth of the Yoruba people to the world.
According to the Ooni, Soyinka’s remarkable journey reflects the power of culture and knowledge in shaping societies, noting that his writings have preserved important aspects of African history, philosophy, and social values for present and future generations.
“Professor Wole Soyinka represents the beauty, strength, and intellectual richness of Yoruba culture. Through his literary works, advocacy, and global engagements, he has continued to serve as a worthy ambassador of our heritage and a source of inspiration to humanity,” the Ooni stated.
The Ooni further acknowledged Soyinka’s role as a bridge between African traditions and global civilisation, stressing that his achievements have brought honour not only to Nigeria but to the entire African continent.
While celebrating the Nobel Laureate’s 92 years of impactful living, the Ooni prayed for continued good health, wisdom, and fulfilment, urging younger generations to draw inspiration from his dedication to knowledge, culture, and service to humanity.