Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on Monday visited the University of Ilorin, where he pledged full support for the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts and emphasized the importance of preserving African cultures through language.
Soyinka, who met with the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), said that promoting indigenous languages is essential for sustaining Africa’s cultural heritage.
“Language is a repository of culture,” Soyinka stated. “Africans should encourage their children to speak their native tongues to preserve their traditions.”
The playwright and professor likened Ilorin to Abu Dhabi, calling it a cultural melting pot and an ideal host city for the university’s inaugural Culture Week. He praised UNILORIN’s efforts in promoting cultural diversity and global understanding through its academic programs.
Drawing from his experience at New York University Abu Dhabi, where he teaches Comparative Literature, Soyinka noted that Ilorin mirrors Abu Dhabi’s multicultural environment. “Ilorin serves as a dynamic intersection of cultures,” he said.
Prof. Egbewole described Soyinka’s visit as a historic and proud moment for the university, aligning with the vision behind establishing the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts.
He shared that the centre, now running diploma to PhD programs, was envisioned with cultural icons like Soyinka in mind.
Prof. Raymond Ogunade, Director of the Centre, expressed joy at hosting Soyinka, calling it a personal and professional milestone. He credited Soyinka’s legacy as foundational to the Centre’s mission.
The visit was attended by key university figures, including council members, faculty, and staff, who welcomed the Nobel Laureate with enthusiasm and appreciation.
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