ODE: "PROFESSOR WOLE SOYINKA AT 92" BY NKWETATANG SAMPSON NGUEKIE

Abeokuta's illustrious Son,

For 92 years, the moon, the stars and the sun

Have borne eyewitness of the forbearing literary song

Which through thick and thin you have sung.

Africa is a bountifully blessed Motherland 

With the most fertile farmland 

From which you rose, and still stand

Defending the dignity of humanity in ways many cannot understand.

We are overjoyed on this glorious day

Of 13th July 2026 as we present to you a golden tray

Of long life wishes as you with us continue to stay

Healthy and as puissant as a railway.

For you we will continue to care,

With you we will continue to share,

And life's challenges we will continue to bear

For the later generations' welfare.

With Leopold Sedar Senghor and Aimé Césaire at the highest altitude,

You have given us the luscious latitude

To project Negritude 

So rich in African cultures, customs and traditions in their multitude.

Many thought that to be black 

Meant to live in misery and lack,

But now, we are back

To our identity, our pride and our self-esteem back.

Today, we come to wine and dine with you,

To talk and laugh with you,

To sing and dance with you,

And to go á roving with you.

© Nkwetatang Sampson Nguekie,

The Pilot Centre for the Humanities,

Bamenda - Cameroon

WhatsApp: +237 677 26 19 86

Date: 13th July 2026.

The poem is a heartfelt birthday tribute celebrating Professor Wole Soyinka on his 92nd birthday. The poet praises Soyinka as one of Africa's greatest literary figures whose lifelong dedication to literature, justice, and humanity has inspired generations. He acknowledges Soyinka's unwavering commitment to defending human dignity despite numerous challenges and commends his role in promoting African culture, identity, and pride.

The poem also places Soyinka alongside prominent champions of the Negritude movement, recognizing his immense contribution to African literature and the celebration of Black identity. It expresses gratitude for his enduring legacy, offers sincere wishes for continued good health and long life, and concludes with a joyful invitation to celebrate his remarkable life and achievements. Overall, the poem is a tribute to Soyinka's literary excellence, cultural influence, and lasting impact on Africa and the world.