Wole Soyinka expresses disbelief at reaching the age of 90.

Renowned Nigerian writer, Professor Wole Soyinka, expressed surprise at reaching 90 years old, revealing he never expected to live this long.

He shared that his decision to become a writer stemmed from a desire to correct misconceptions he encountered in his youth.

Speaking to 383 students at the 2024 Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Programme held at his ARI residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on July 14, Soyinka reflected on his journey.

Born on July 13, 1934, he celebrated his 90th birthday recently, with President Bola Tinubu renaming the National Arts Theatre in Lagos in his honour.

Addressing his controversial act during the military regime, Soyinka clarified that he did not break into a radio station but rather sneaked in to retrieve an item held by the station.

He believed that broadcasting the item would have had negative effects on morale and perpetuated brutality.

Soyinka criticized Nigerians for criticizing the state while avoiding self-reflection. He argued that selfishness and the desire for luxury, not poverty or inequality, drive crimes like kidnapping and robbery.

He commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for improving the environment around his home and preventing its degradation, a factor that influenced his decision not to abandon Nigeria despite its challenges.