Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has called on Africans to speak their native languages to their children as a way of preserving culture and traditions.
Soyinka made the appeal on Monday, May 19, 2025, during his visit to the University of Ilorin. His visit was part of activities leading up to the institution’s maiden Culture Week, organised by the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts.
Speaking during the visit, the renowned playwright and cultural advocate pledged his full support to help implement the Centre’s initiatives. He said his presence at the university was not just ceremonial, but a deliberate step to contribute meaningfully to the Centre’s goals.
“My mission in Ilorin is to implement all the plans of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts,” he said.
Soyinka described Ilorin as a unique meeting point of cultures, likening the city to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, where he currently teaches at New York University Abu Dhabi.
“Ilorin serves as a meeting point of cultures, making it a highly significant location for hosting an event that celebrates cultural diversity,” he said.
He also praised the University of Ilorin for promoting cultural unity through the arts and said the work of the Centre goes beyond the campus, with the potential to foster global understanding and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking to journalists after a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor, Soyinka emphasised the importance of indigenous languages in maintaining cultural identity.
“Language is a repository of culture. Africans should allow their children to speak their language for the sustainability of their traditions,” he urged.
Soyinka reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to promoting culture and the arts, promising to continue supporting the university’s efforts in cultural development.
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