The British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, in partnership with the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE), hosted an unforgettable evening to honor Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka as he celebrated his milestone 90th birthday.
The event, aptly titled “A Creative Evening with Wole Soyinka,” attracted an eclectic mix of public officials, corporate leaders, diplomats, and youth advocates, all eager to engage with the legendary figure whose contributions to literature and human rights have left an indelible mark on society.
Held at the picturesque residence of the British Deputy High Commissioner, the event showcased the talents of young Nigerians through an array of creative expressions, including poetry, fine art, music, and fashion.
A highlight of the evening was a thought-provoking fireside chat focused on “Youth Engagement towards Nation-building and Good Governance,” which underscored the vital role of the younger generation in shaping Nigeria’s future.
The centerpiece of the celebration was the unveiling of the “NINE Seasons of Wole Soyinka” exhibition, which chronicles the laureate’s remarkable journey from 1934 to the present. This exhibition, featuring nine striking paintings, encapsulated various facets of Soyinka’s life and work, emphasizing his status as a global icon and literary juggernaut dedicated to art, culture, and social justice.
British Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Jonny Baxter expressed his admiration for Soyinka, highlighting the significant impact the literary giant has had on Nigerian youth. He emphasized the economic potential of Nigeria’s creative sector, asserting that with proper government attention, it could drive substantial growth.
Baxter reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to fostering collaboration in the creative industry, reflecting on recent trade missions aimed at strengthening UK-Nigeria relations.
Dr. Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, who joined the event virtually, praised the British Commission for honoring Soyinka, deeming him a beacon of guidance for the youth.
He stressed the necessity of youth involvement in governance, warning against the dangers of sidelining the demographic that constitutes 70% of Nigeria’s population.
Otti shared initiatives in Abia aimed at empowering youth, including a billion Naira cooperative support fund and a dedicated portion of the state budget for education.
In a stirring address, Prof. Soyinka urged young people to seize control of Nigeria’s future by embracing curiosity and innovation. He emphasized the importance of questioning the status quo and fostering community collaboration to transform ideas into impactful solutions.
Foluke Michael, Project Director of Wole Soyinka At 90, revealed that the journey to celebrate Soyinka began with the African I.D.E.N.T.I.T.Y project and would continue through a series of events, including a poetry roadshow across nine countries.
She announced that the “Nine Seasons of Wole Soyinka” exhibition would tour globally, ensuring that the legacy of this literary titan reaches a worldwide audience while inspiring future generations.