President Bola Tinubu has congratulated renowned playwright, scholar and literary icon, Professor Femi Osofisan, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest intellectuals and a tireless advocate for social change.
In a State House statement released on Monday, the President paid tribute to Osofisan’s enduring contributions to literature, theatre arts, scholarship and national development, noting that his life exemplifies service, dedication and hard work.
Tinubu described the celebrated academic as a rare individual who has fully utilised his talents in the service of humanity, using his writings and creative works to challenge societal injustices and promote moral renewal.
“Few men live in the full expression of the abundance of their talents. Professor Babafemi Adeyemi Osofisan is one of those incredibly brilliant individuals who have blessed our world with their creativity,” the President said.
Osofisan, a playwright, poet, novelist, teacher, scholar, emeritus professor and newspaper columnist, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential literary figures.
Throughout his career, he has used literature and theatre as tools for social commentary and public enlightenment.
The President noted that the distinguished scholar dedicated much of his life to addressing societal challenges and advocating a national rebirth through his numerous literary works.
Among his notable achievements is the novella Maami, which later inspired a Nigerian drama film produced and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Tunde Kelani in 2011.
Born in Erunwon, Ogun State, Osofisan received his secondary education at Government College, Ibadan, before proceeding to the University of Ibadan, where he studied French. He later pursued graduate studies at the Sorbonne University in Paris, France.
He subsequently built a distinguished academic career at the University of Ibadan, serving in various teaching and administrative capacities before retiring as a professor.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to theatre arts, Osofisan received the prestigious Thalia Prize from the International Association of Theatre Critics in 2016.
Congratulating the literary giant ahead of his 80th birthday on June 16, President Tinubu praised his remarkable achievements and lasting impact on generations of students, writers and theatre practitioners.
“I warmly congratulate this literary colossus as he turns 80 on June 16. His life and accomplishments are a demonstration of service, dedication and hard work,” the President stated.
Tinubu further commended Osofisan’s contributions to scholarship and the performing arts, describing him as a consistent voice for national transformation and one of the country’s most respected minds.
“I salute his enormous contributions to scholarship and the theatre arts and his consistent advocacy for a national rebirth. He remains one of our nation’s finest minds,” he added.
The President also joined family members, friends, colleagues and members of the literary community in celebrating the milestone, praying for continued good health and longevity for the revered scholar.
“As Professor Osofisan celebrates this milestone, I join his family, friends and the literary community in wishing him excellent health and praying that his fount of wisdom continues to flourish,” the statement read.