13th July 2024, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

ATPN Ekiti Joins the Global Literary Community to celebrate Professor Wole Soyinka at 90

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) Ekiti state Chapter in collaboration with the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Ekiti Book Club and the Ekiti state Bureau of Tourism Development has joined the literary community in Ekiti state and the world to celebrate Prof. Wole Soyinka, Nigerian playwright, novelist, poet and essayist on his 90th birthday.

The literary works of the sage have had no small influence in the African arts, culture and tourism landscape.

The impact of his literary influence on tourism includes his emphasis on the  importance of cultural sensitivity, respect, and responsible engagement.

While Professor Wole Soyinka's works often critique the excesses of tourism, some of his writings can be seen as promoting tourism in a responsible and culturally sensitive manner. From "The Lion and the Jewel" (1964)  which showcases Yoruba culture and traditions, to "Death and the King's Horseman" (1975) which explores Yoruba mythology and culture, "Aké: The Years of Childhood" (1981) a memoir which shares Soyinka's childhood experiences in Aké, a town in western Nigeria, "Isara: A Voyage Around Essay" (1989) , an essay collection which includes Soyinka's reflections on his travels and cultural encounters, "Samarkand and Other Markets I Have Known" (2002), also an essay collection which includes Soyinka's experiences in various markets around the world.

Some of his works and essays that have been adapted into plays, movies and documentaries include: "The Lion and the Jewel" (1964) adapted into a film in 1975 by Francis Oladele, "Kongi's Harvest" (1965) adapted into a film in 1970 by Ossie Davis, "The Strong Breed" (1964) adapted into a film in 1971 by Gansan Umar, "Death and the King's Horseman" (1975) adapted into a film in 2009 by Biyi Bandele and by Mo' Abudu in 2022 also directed by Biyi Bandele, "Aké: The Years of Childhood" (1981) - adapted into a TV series in 2019 by Nigerian production company, M-Net.

Additionally, Soyinka's poetry and plays have been featured in various documentaries and short films, such as "Wole Soyinka: A Man of the People" (2013) - a documentary by Juan Baquer, "Soyinka: A Portrait of the Artist" (2016) - a documentary by Andy Mundy-Castle.

Professor Wole Soyinka's works have undoubtedly advocated responsible and sustainable culture and tourism with his primary focus on sharing his cultural heritage and critiquing social injustices, like culture commodification, exploitation, environmental degradation, authenticity etc.

 In Africa, Prof. Wole Soyinka's impact includes empowering Africans to reclaim  their identities and cultures inspiring generations to champion human rights challenging social injustices and his global fight for equity and justice.

As the world celebrates Prof. Wole Soyinka the Nobel Laureate, poet, essayist and literary icon today, the Association for Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria Ekiti state Chapter applauds the immeasurable impact that the sage has had on the African and Nigerian society.

The chairman of the association, Dr. Abigail Olagbaye noted that Prof. Wole Soyinka is a literary maverick and Africa's foremost Nobel Laureate who has used his literary prowess against injustice. We the tourism private sector celebrate his phenomenal life achievements and what he stands for in humanity.

The birthday celebration and tributes to his lifetime achievements and phenomenal impact will be held on the 13th of July, 2024 at The Farm in Ado - Ekiti with Sen Babafemi Ojudu, former presidential adviser, senator,  culture aficionado and chairman of Olowo Ise Art Foundation playing host to the arts, culture and tourism community in Ekiti state.

The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria is the pioneer association for tourism in Nigeria established in October 1990 promoting sustainable tourism development and representing the tourism private sector practitioners operating in the tourism value chain across Nigeria. The Ekiti State chapter promotes Ekiti as a 'must visit' destination and provides a platform for tourism practitioners in Ekiti State to promote their businesses.

For Enquiries:
Email: ekiti@atpn.ng
Phone: +2347046681467

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