Soyinka Visits Ilorin, Issues Strong Warning About Africa’s Future

Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka has issued a powerful message to Africans, warning that the future of the continent’s cultural identity is at risk if urgent steps are not taken.

Speaking during a visit to the University of Ilorin on Monday, May 19, 2025, Soyinka stressed the critical importance of teaching African children their native languages. The visit coincided with the university’s inaugural Culture Week, organized by the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts.

“This isn’t just a ceremonial trip,” Soyinka said, standing before staff and students. “My mission in Ilorin is to help implement the Centre’s cultural vision. Language is a repository of culture. Without it, we lose ourselves.”

The literary icon, who currently teaches at New York University Abu Dhabi, compared Ilorin’s cultural richness to that of Abu Dhabi, highlighting its diverse influences and suitability for championing cultural unity and heritage.

Soyinka warned that failing to teach native languages to the next generation could lead to the gradual erasure of African identity. His words sparked deep reflection among attendees, especially as he recalled how cultural elements across Africa are being sidelined in favor of Western influences.

He praised the University of Ilorin for using the arts to promote global understanding and peaceful coexistence, noting that such initiatives are crucial beyond the walls of academia.

“The Centre’s work is not just for the university—it’s for Nigeria, for Africa. We must stop letting our languages die in silence,” Soyinka said.

The professor’s remarks were met with resounding applause and spurred conversations on the role of educational institutions in cultural preservation.

Soyinka’s visit ended with a pledge of continued support for the university’s cultural programs, leaving behind not just words, but a call to action that resonated beyond the lecture halls.

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