Nigerian Literary Society and Port Harcourt Club Host Lecture To Celebrate Soyinka @ 90

The Nigerian Literary Society (NLS) and the Book Section of Port Harcourt Club are set to host a birthday lecture in honor of the esteemed Prof. Wole Soyinka. The event, themed Wole Soyinka @ 90: The Nexus Between Literature and Justified Activism, will take place on Saturday, July 27, at Port Harcourt Club, Forces Avenue, Old GRA, Port Harcourt.

This birthday lecture aims to honor and celebrate Professor Wole Soyinka’s monumental contributions to literature and his steadfast commitment to justified activism. Over the years, Soyinka has become synonymous with literary excellence and fearless activism, continuously standing against intimidation, human rights abuses, and political turmoil.

Professor Soyinka, a distinguished writer, novelist, poet, and human rights activist, boasts an impressive body of work. Some of his notable works include Telephone Conversation, *The Trials of Brother Jero, The Man Died, Set Forth At Dawn, Kongi’s Harvest, Brother Jero’s Metamorphosis, and The Lion and the Jewel. In 1986, he made history as the first African to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.

In a statement jointly signed by David Chukwueke, Curator of the Nigerian Literary Society, and Mrs. Judith Obomanu, Captain of the Book Section of Port Harcourt Club, the organizers expressed their admiration for Soyinka. They highlighted his unyielding voice in the face of oppression and political unrest, stating, “Soyinka is a figure who refuses to remain silent in the face of intimidation and the degradation of humanity and its environment.”

The organizers emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “It will be an immense pleasure and honor for the Nigerian Literary Society and the Book Section of Port Harcourt Club to host this birthday lecture in tribute to our literary statesman. This event underscores our dedication to literature and the values it embodies.”

Dame Ibim Semenitari, a renowned journalist, former Commissioner of Information, and former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been chosen as the keynote speaker for the lecture. A passionate literary enthusiast and academic, Semenitari is uniquely positioned to explore the theme The Nexus Between Literature and Justified Activism and provide insightful commentary on Soyinka’s enduring impact.

This lecture promises to be an inspiring and enlightening event, celebrating the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential literary figures. The organizers invite all lovers of literature and champions of human rights to join them in honoring Wole Soyinka’s remarkable journey and contributions to society.