Tinubu Names Abuja Highway After Wole Soyinka

5th June 2024

In a gesture to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Nigeria’s literary icon, President Bola Tinubu has officially named the Arterial Road N20, stretching from Northern Parkway to Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX), as Professor Wole Soyinka Highway.

This move follows a recommendation by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) as announced by Presidential media aide, Bayo Onanuga on Tuesday, 4th June, 2024.

The renaming honours Professor Wole Soyinka, a distinguished playwright, poet, and novelist, who will celebrate his 90th birthday on July 13.

President Tinubu highlighted Soyinka’s extraordinary contributions to literature and his role in elevating Nigeria’s global cultural standing.

Notably, Soyinka was the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

“Professor Wole Soyinka has brought immense honour and fame to Nigeria through his unparalleled contributions to literature and his unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice.

“Naming this highway after him is a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of truth, freedom, and artistic excellence”, Tinubu stated.

The newly named Professor Wole Soyinka Highway stands as a symbol of national pride and recognition of Soyinka’s enduring legacy.

The road is a vital artery in Abuja’s transport network, connecting key areas and facilitating movement across the city.

This tribute comes as Nigeria and the world prepare to celebrate the 90th birthday of one of Africa’s most revered literary figures.

The naming ceremony is expected to take place soon, with dignitaries and cultural icons in attendance to honour Soyinka’s lasting impact on literature and society.