By Admin
The Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, on Monday visited the University of Ilorin, saying that he will implement all plans of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts in the institution.
He called on Africans to speak their language to their children so as to sustain culture and traditions.
The Nigerian playwright and author, who said this on Monday May 19, 2025 during a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, did so as part of activities leading up to the institution’s maiden Culture Week, organised by the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts.He described Ilorin as a cultural melting pot, likening the Emirate City of Ilorin’s unique blending of diverse traditions and values to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab EmiratesSoyinka said, “Ilorin serves as a meeting point of cultures, making it a highly significant location for hosting an event that celebrates cultural diversity.”
He also said, “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 parallels from his experience as a Professor of Arts and Literature at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), the scholar of Comparative Literature highlighted the similarities between Ilorin and Abu Dhabi.
He said, “Abu Dhabi thrives on the expression of unity through various cultural traditions, a concept he considers fundamental to human existence.” He remarked that since he began teaching in Abu Dhabi, he has come to see Ilorin as a microcosm of what the Emirate represents — a dynamic intersection of global cultures.
While commending the University of Ilorin’s role in promoting global ecumenism, he expressed commitment to contributing in his own way to the continuity and advancement of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts, adding that his life’s work has always revolved around arts and culture.
Answering questions from journalists after the visit, Soyinka urged African people to speak their language to their children, adding that they sustain their traditions.
Soyinka said, “Language is a repository of culture. Africans should allow their children to speak their language for the sustainability of their traditions.
“My mission in Ilorin is to implement all the plans of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts,” Soyinka said.
