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International Writers Association Salutes Prof. Wole Soyinka @90th

Published

2 years ago

July 13, 2024

Eric

The International Writers Association (IWA) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Nobel Prize Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, on the momentous occasion of his 90th birthday. This significant milestone marks a lifetime of profound contributions to literature, drama, and human rights advocacy, and the IWA is honored to celebrate this literary giant.

Prof. Soyinka, renowned for his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to justice, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature. His works, characterized by their depth, wit, and fearless exploration of social issues, have inspired generations of writers and readers alike. As we commemorate his 90th birthday, we reflect on the immense impact he has had on global literature and the arts.

Born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Wole Soyinka’s journey to literary greatness began at a young age. His early exposure to diverse cultures and traditions influenced his writing, enabling him to craft narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Soyinka’s literary genius was recognized globally when he became the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986.

Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Soyinka has been a vocal advocate for human rights and democracy. His fearless stance against tyranny and oppression has often put him at great personal risk, yet he remains undeterred in his mission to promote freedom and justice. His activism, combined with his literary prowess, makes him a unique and formidable force in both the literary and political arenas.

The International Writers Association acknowledges Prof. Soyinka’s role in championing the cause of writers and intellectuals across the globe. His unwavering dedication to the written word and his efforts to protect the rights of writers have set a high standard for literary activism. He has been a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for countless writers striving to make a difference in the world.

As we celebrate Prof. Soyinka’s 90th birthday, we also recognize the timeless relevance of his works. From plays like “Death and the King’s Horseman” to novels such as “The Man Died: Prison Notes,” his writings continue to provoke thought, challenge conventions, and inspire change. His ability to blend traditional African storytelling with contemporary themes has created a unique and enduring literary legacy.

The IWA International is proud to honor Prof. Soyinka not only for his literary achievements but also for his contributions to cultural exchange and understanding. His efforts to bridge cultural divides and foster dialogue among diverse communities have enriched the global literary landscape and promoted a greater appreciation of our shared humanity.

On this special occasion, we extend our warmest wishes to Prof. Soyinka. May his 90th birthday be filled with joy, reflection, and the continued pursuit of his passions. We hope that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of writers, thinkers, and activists to strive for a better, more just world.

The International Writers Association remains committed to supporting and celebrating literary icons like Prof. Soyinka. We look forward to many more years of his insightful writings and unwavering advocacy. His life and work remind us of the power of words to effect change and the importance of standing up for what is right.

Happy 90th birthday, Prof. Wole Soyinka. Your contributions to literature and humanity are immeasurable, and we are grateful for your enduring legacy.

Signed

Wole Adedoyin

International Writers Association

Acting President

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Tinubu Nominates Oyedele As Minister of State for Finance, Moves Anite-Uzoka to Budget Ministry

Published

7 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Eric

A statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, has announced that “President Bola Tinubu has nominated Taiwo Oyedele as the minister of state for finance, replacing Doris Anite-Uzoka.

“Mrs Anite-Uzoka will now move to the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, as the Minister of State, her third portfolio in the administration.

“President Tinubu has today conveyed the nomination of Mr Oyedele to the Senate for confirmation in a letter to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

“Until President Tinubu nominated him as a minister, Mr Oyedele from Ikaram, Akoko, Ondo State, was the chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, which overhauled Nigeria’s tax system.

“Mr Oyedele, 50, is an economist, accountant and public policy expert.

“He attended Yaba College of Technology, where he obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in accountancy and finance. He attended Oxford Brookes University and earned a BSc in applied accounting.

“He also completed executive education programmes at the London School of Economics, Yale University, the Gordon Institute of Business Science, and the Harvard Kennedy School.

“Mr Oyedele spent 22 years of his working career at PwC, joining in 2001 and rising to become the Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader.

“Mr Oyedele is also a professor at Babcock University in Ogun State and a visiting scholar at the Lagos Business School.”

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Defection: Atiku’s Son, Adamu, Resigns As Adamawa Commissioner

Published

13 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Eric

Adamu Abubakar, the first son of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, has resigned as Adamawa State’s commissioner for works and energy development, days after Governor Ahmadu Fintiri defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

Abubakar’s resignation letter, dated 2 March 2026, was addressed to the governor through the Secretary to the State Government. He gave no reason for his departure.

The timing is pointed. Fintiri announced his defection to the APC in a statewide broadcast last Friday, saying his cabinet and the PDP’s state structure had moved with him. Within 24 hours, 22 commissioners and special advisers publicly announced they were following suit. Abubakar, whose father remains one of the PDP’s most prominent national figures, was not among them.

In a statement issued Monday night, Abubakar’s media aide Abdulaziz Jauro said the former commissioner thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve and pledged continued loyalty to the administration’s developmental agenda. He also expressed gratitude to his father “for granting him the moral support and blessing to serve the people of Adamawa State” — a line that, read in context, suggests Atiku was consulted on the decision.

Abubakar said his resignation was not a withdrawal from public life. “This does not mark the end of his commitment to public service,” the statement read, “but rather the beginning of new avenues for developmental collaboration.”

The resignation leaves unresolved the question of whether it reflects a political break with the governor over his defection or a personal decision unconnected to the broader party realignment now reshaping Adamawa’s political landscape.

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DSS Nabs Man over Assassination Attempt on Peter Obi

Published

15 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Eric

Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has detained a man in connection with the recent attack and alleged assassination threats targeting Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

According to AIT, the shooting incident took place on February 24, 2026, in Benin City, Edo State, during a political gathering attended by Obi and several figures from the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The meeting was hosted by former APC National Chairman, John Oyegun. Gunmen reportedly opened fire at the venue, causing panic and forcing attendees to disperse for safety.

According to security sources, shortly after the attack, an individual identified as Udeme Monday Stephen allegedly took to social media claiming responsibility and issuing additional threats against Obi, warning of further violence.

Intelligence officials reportedly initiated swift investigations, employing digital tracing and forensic tools that led to the arrest of the 26-year-old suspect in Rivers State. He is said to be a teacher at a private secondary school in the Eliozu area of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area.

The suspect remains in DSS custody and is expected to face prosecution. The agency reiterated its commitment to responding to credible threats and safeguarding lives and national interests without bias.