Soyinka Expressed Surprise at Living to 90 Years Old

Wole Soyinka expressed surprise at reaching 90 years old, reflecting on the unexpected milestone and sharing insights from his life.

Prof Wole Soyinka, a Nobel Laureate, expressed his disbelief at reaching the age of 90 during the 2024 edition of his International Cultural Exchange Programme.

The event took place at his ARI residence in Ijegba, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he shared his thoughts on his life and career.

Soyinka revealed that his decision to become a writer was driven by a desire to correct the inaccuracies in stories he heard while growing up

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He also recounted an incident during the military era when he “sneaked in” to a radio station to retrieve an item that he believed belonged to the people, emphasizing the importance of standing up against oppression and brutality.

The Nobel Laureate criticized Nigerians for their tendency to criticize the state without examining their own actions.

He attributed crimes like kidnapping and robbery to selfishness and the desire for a luxurious lifestyle, rather than poverty or inequality.

The 2024 Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Programme featured students from across the country who participated in an essay competition on national and international topics, highlighting the impact of Soyinka’s work on the younger generation.