Nobel Laureate and cultural icon, Professor Wole Soyinka, has urged Africans to preserve their heritage by speaking indigenous languages to their children.
The globally acclaimed playwright made the call on Monday, May 19, 2025, during a historic visit to the University of Ilorin, where he pledged full support for the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts.
Soyinka’s visit coincided with the lead-up to the university’s maiden Culture Week, and his presence electrified the academic community.
Addressing journalists after a courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, Soyinka emphasized the importance of language in cultural preservation.
“Language is a repository of culture. Africans should allow their children to speak their language for the sustainability of their traditions,” he declared.
He further stated, “My mission in Ilorin is to implement all the plans of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts.”
Soyinka lauded Ilorin’s cultural richness, calling it a “meeting point of cultures” and a perfect host for an event that celebrates diversity. Comparing the city to Abu Dhabi—where he currently teaches Arts and Literature at New York University—he said, “Ilorin serves as a meeting point of cultures, making it a highly significant location for hosting an event that celebrates cultural diversity.”
The Nobel Laureate added that the work of the university’s Centre transcends local boundaries: “The significance of the programme of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts of the University of Ilorin transcends the university and the host community, because it has broader implications for global understanding and peaceful coexistence.”
Drawing from his teaching experiences abroad, Soyinka said, “Abu Dhabi thrives on the expression of unity through various cultural traditions,” and likened Ilorin to a “microcosm” of that ethos.
During his visit to the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts, he pledged his active involvement in realising its vision. “My life’s work has always revolved around arts and culture, and I’m committed to contributing to the continuity and advancement of this Centre,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, SAN, expressed deep gratitude for Soyinka’s visit, calling it a moment of historic pride.
“We do not take Professor Soyinka’s visit for granted,” Egbewole said. “This is a moment of pride and historical importance for the University of Ilorin.”
The Vice Chancellor added that the Centre was conceived with figures like Soyinka in mind: “The establishment of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts was inspired by a vision that aligns closely with Soyinka’s lifelong dedication to arts and humanities.”
He noted that the Centre currently offers diploma, undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programmes, and expressed confidence that it would grow into one of the most respected institutions globally.
Director of the Centre, Professor Raymond Ogunade, described Soyinka’s visit as the fulfilment of a long-standing dream.
“It was a natural desire upon assuming office as pioneer Director to ensure Soyinka’s involvement in the Centre’s development, given his immense contributions to the world of arts and letters,” Ogunade said. “His participation marks a significant milestone in our history and growth.”
The event was attended by university principal officers, council members, the Committee of Provost and Deans, Centre staff, and members of the broader University of Ilorin community.
