I Never Thought I Would Live Up To 90 – Wole Soyinka Reflects on Life and Legacy

Renowned Nigerian playwright and Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, marked his 90th birthday on Saturday, July 13, 2024, expressing surprise at reaching this significant milestone.

Speaking at the 2024 Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Programme held at his ARI residence in Ijegba, Abeokuta, Soyinka engaged with 383 students and shared insights into his unexpected longevity.

Reflecting on his journey, Soyinka admitted he never anticipated living to 90 years old. He recounted that his passion for writing stemmed from a desire to correct narrative discrepancies encountered in stories during his formative years.

Addressing an incident from the military era, Soyinka clarified that his entry into a radio station was not a break-in but rather a surreptitious act to retrieve information he believed belonged to the public. He asserted that withholding such material could have perpetuated a culture of brutality and demoralization.

Critically examining societal attitudes, Soyinka rebuked Nigerians for incessantly criticizing the state while neglecting introspection. He attributed crimes like kidnapping and robbery not to poverty or inequality but to individual greed and the pursuit of material wealth.

In a positive note, Soyinka commended Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for his efforts in environmental conservation around his residence, preventing degradation.

As Soyinka continues to inspire through his literary prowess and outspoken advocacy, his 90th birthday celebration provided a platform to reflect on his enduring impact on Nigerian literature and social discourse.