I never knew I would live to be 90 — Soyinka

Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka revealed on Monday that he never anticipated living to the age of 90.

This revelation came while he was addressing questions from approximately 383 students participating in the 2024 edition of the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Programme, held at his ARI residence in Ijegba, Abeokuta.

During the event, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, announced scholarships and laptops for nine students who excelled in an essay competition organised to celebrate Soyinka’s 90th birthday.

Born on July 13, 1934, Soyinka turned 90 on Saturday.

Reflecting on his life, Soyinka mentioned that he did not foresee reaching 90 years of age and shared that his decision to become a writer stemmed from a desire to correct inaccuracies in the stories he heard while growing up.

He also praised Governor Abiodun for his efforts in improving the environment around his residence, preventing degradation, and contributing to his decision to remain in the country.

Speaking at the programme, Abiodun emphasised that the scholarships and laptops were intended to encourage the students to continue writing and to motivate others to participate in future editions of the competition.

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