Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sent warm greetings to Nobel laureate Prof. Oluwole Soyinka on the occasion of his 89th birthday.

In a congratulatory message released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised Prof. Soyinka as an exceptional scholar and literary icon who has made significant contributions to literature, academia, and global governance.

Prof. Soyinka, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 and became the first sub-Saharan African to receive this esteemed accolade, celebrated his 89th birthday on Thursday, July 13.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Prof. Soyinka is a noteworthy figure deserving of celebration, as he has been a strong advocate for good governance in Nigeria. The governor further acknowledged that the Nobel Laureate is a source of pride for Nigeria and a significant ambassador on the global stage.

He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate our literary icon and Nobel Laureate, Prof. Oluwole Soyinka on his 89th birthday anniversary.

“Prof. Soyinka as a literary icon excels in all the genres of literature and his prodigious works have continued to be a reference point in academic circles all over the world. His long years of outstanding accomplishments and consistency in the crusade for the wellbeing of citizens had culminated in his legendary status. He is a great pride to Nigeria, Africa and the entire black race.

“He is a renowned advocate of truth, justice and equity, who always align with the populace in the clamour for good governance across the nation and globally. He has demonstrated this on many occasions by lending his voice on national and global issues in favour of the masses.

“As Prof. Soyinka clocks 89, I wish him good health and more years of meritorious service to our dear country, Nigeria, the African continent and the world.”