Wole Adedoyin, President of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) and African Director of the International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAF), has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s failure to adequately honor one of its most esteemed literary figures, Professor Wole Soyinka.
In a press release issued from Ibadan on Thursday, Adedoyin highlighted the Nigerian government’s apparent oversight in giving proper recognition to Prof. Soyinka, the first black African Nobel Prize laureate in Literature. Despite his significant contributions to literature, theater, and activism, Prof. Soyinka’s legacy remains largely uncelebrated on a national level.
Adedoyin lamented the lack of concrete initiatives or official acknowledgments from the government that reflect the profound impact of Prof. Soyinka’s work, both within Nigeria and internationally. He emphasized that this neglect not only disrespects Prof. Soyinka’s remarkable achievements but also diminishes Nigeria’s cultural and intellectual heritage.
SYNW stands firmly in its demand for the Nigerian government to address this oversight promptly. Prof. Soyinka’s literary brilliance, unwavering commitment to social justice, and staunch advocacy for freedom of expression embody the ideals that Nigeria should proudly uphold and commemorate.
As Africa’s most populous nation and a symbol of cultural diversity, Nigeria holds a responsibility to honor and preserve the legacies of its most eminent figures. Prof. Soyinka’s contributions transcend literature; they symbolize the resilience, creativity, and essence of Nigeria itself.
Adedoyin urged the Nigerian government to seize the opportunity to rectify this long-standing omission by implementing concrete measures to honor Prof. Soyinka’s legacy. Such recognition would not only pay tribute to a literary giant but also inspire generations of aspiring writers and intellectuals.
SYNW reiterated its dedication to advocating for the recognition and celebration of Nigeria’s cultural icons, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding and promoting the nation’s rich literary heritage. The society called upon all stakeholders, including government officials, cultural institutions, and civil society organizations, to unite in honoring Prof. Soyinka’s enduring legacy.
In conclusion, Adedoyin reaffirmed SYNW’s unwavering support for Prof. Soyinka and its commitment to ensuring that his contributions to literature and society are duly acknowledged and celebrated by the nation he has tirelessly served and enriched.