Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and former presidential candidate, Kingsley Moghalu, has paid glowing tribute to Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 92nd birthday, describing him as a national treasure and a global icon whose remarkable contributions to literature, democracy and human development deserve greater national recognition.
In a statement issued on Tuesday to commemorate Soyinka’s birthday, Moghalu said the renowned playwright, poet, author and public intellectual represents one of Nigeria’s greatest gifts to the world, urging the country to honour him in the same manner other nations celebrate citizens who have attained extraordinary global distinction.
According to Moghalu, Soyinka’s influence extends far beyond the literary world, having consistently used his voice and intellect to champion democracy, justice, human rights and good governance in Nigeria, Africa and across the international community.
He noted that while many countries go to great lengths to honour their accomplished citizens with prestigious national privileges and symbolic recognitions, Nigeria should also ensure that Soyinka receives the highest honours befitting his stature.
“Wole Soyinka is a national treasure and a global titan of immense dimensions and proportions. In certain countries, individuals who achieve what he has are greatly honoured in many formal ways, including diplomatic passports (I hope he holds, at the very least, a Nigerian diplomatic passport), honorary citizenship and so on,” Moghalu said.
The former presidential candidate described Soyinka as an exceptional intellectual whose life and career have inspired generations of writers, scholars, activists and public leaders across the world.
He observed that Soyinka’s achievements have elevated Nigeria’s image internationally and demonstrated the immense potential of African creativity and scholarship.
According to Moghalu, the Nobel laureate’s legacy is not limited to his extraordinary literary accomplishments but also encompasses his unwavering commitment to truth, freedom and the defence of democratic values, often at great personal risk.
He recalled that throughout several decades, Soyinka has remained one of Nigeria’s most fearless public voices, consistently speaking against oppression, authoritarianism, corruption and injustice irrespective of the government in power.
Moghalu said such courage, combined with Soyinka’s immense intellectual contributions, makes him one of the country’s most distinguished citizens.
Prof. Soyinka made history in 1986 when he became the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, a landmark achievement that brought global recognition to African literature and established him as one of the world’s most celebrated literary figures.
His extensive body of work includes acclaimed plays, novels, essays, poetry and memoirs that have examined themes of culture, politics, identity, freedom and the human condition.
Beyond his writings, Soyinka has remained actively engaged in national and international discourse, contributing to conversations on governance, education, peace, civil liberties and social justice.
Over the years, he has received numerous honours from universities, governments and international organisations in recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature and humanity.
Moghalu said Nigeria should continue to celebrate such distinguished citizens while they are alive, rather than waiting until after their passing to acknowledge their achievements.
He stressed that recognising individuals like Soyinka sends a positive message to younger generations about the importance of excellence, patriotism, integrity and service to society.
According to him, honouring outstanding Nigerians also strengthens national identity and reinforces the country’s appreciation for intellectual achievement and cultural excellence.
The former CBN deputy governor further noted that Soyinka’s lifelong dedication to defending democratic ideals has made him an enduring symbol of courage and principled leadership.
He said the Nobel laureate has consistently demonstrated that intellectual influence carries with it a responsibility to challenge injustice and advocate for a better society.
As tributes poured in from within Nigeria and across the world to celebrate Soyinka’s 92nd birthday, many admirers praised his enduring relevance, describing him as a literary giant whose works continue to shape academic thought, inspire creative expression and influence public policy debates.
Scholars, writers, political leaders and civil society organisations have also commended his unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and his steadfast advocacy for accountable leadership.
For many Nigerians, Soyinka remains not only a celebrated author but also a moral voice whose interventions on national issues continue to resonate across generations.
Moghalu concluded by expressing gratitude for Soyinka’s enduring contributions to Nigeria and humanity, wishing him continued good health and many more years of impactful service.
He said the Nobel laureate’s extraordinary life stands as a lasting reminder that the true measure of greatness lies not only in personal achievement but also in the ability to inspire positive change, defend justice and leave an enduring legacy for future generations.
