The Northern Parkway road in Abuja has been dedicated in honour of the well-known Nigerian author Wole Soyinka by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
News About Nigeria reports that this action is a part of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) commissioning of several projects to commemorate the president’s first year in office.
Famous playwright, novelist, poet, and essayist Wole Soyinka created literary history in 1986 when he became the first person from Sub-Saharan Africa to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.
The renaming honours Professor Wole Soyinka, a distinguished playwright, poet, and novelist, who will celebrate his 90th birthday on July 13.
President Tinubu highlighted Soyinka’s extraordinary contributions to literature and his role in elevating Nigeria’s global cultural standing.
Notably, Soyinka was the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.
“Professor Wole Soyinka has brought immense honour and fame to Nigeria through his unparalleled contributions to literature and his unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice,” President Tinubu stated.
“Naming this highway after him is a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth, freedom, and artistic excellence.”
The newly named Professor Wole Soyinka Highway stands as a symbol of national pride and recognition of Soyinka’s enduring legacy.
The road is a vital artery in Abuja’s transport network, connecting key areas and facilitating movement across the city.
This tribute comes as Nigeria and the world prepare to celebrate the 90th birthday of one of Africa’s most revered literary figures.
The naming ceremony is expected to take place soon, with dignitaries and cultural icons in attendance to honour Soyinka’s lasting impact on literature and society.
