Former Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola is to deliver the 26th Edition of the Wole Soyinka Lecture Series.
The lecture series organised by the National Association of Seadogs, popularly known as Pyrates Confraternity, is slated for August 2, 2024 at the June 12 Cultural centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State in continuation of the celebration of the 90th birthday of the Nobel Laureate Prize winner.
The NAS Capoon, Mr Abiola Owoaje, in a statement on Monday disclosed that Fashola, a two-time governor of Lagos State, would speak on the theme: “The Baby or the Bathwater: Navigating the Dark Tunnels of Systemic Corruption to Nationhood.”
According to him, the Chairman of the occasion is former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Rt Hon Chief Emeka Anyaoku, while Soyinka is the special guest of honour
Owoaje explained that the Wole Soyinka Lecture Series was an annual lecture organised to celebrate the life, times, and works of the Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
He noted that the lecture since its maiden edition in 1994 had become a credible platform for advocates for social justice, credible leadership, good governance, and democratic ideals.
Previous speakers at the lecture series include Prof Ibrahim Ayagi, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Rear Admiral Ndubusi Kanu, Prof Femi Odekunle, Prof Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, Chief Rotimi Willaims, Amb Dr Robin Sanders among others.
Owoaje also pointed out that this year’s event would feature the maiden edition of the Prof Wole Soyinka Award for Youth Leadership and Innovation.
He stated that the award to be presented by Prof Wole Soyinka was designed to honour and celebrate the remarkable achievements of young leaders who had demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, dedication, and innovative efforts in addressing societal challenges.
‘’Also billed for the event is the public presentation of the book Ship Ahoy: The History of the National Association of Seadogs, Pyrates Confraternity (1952-2022).
‘’The book will be reviewed by Prof David Aworawo, Head of Department, History, University of Lagos. The events of the day will be rounded off with a drama sketch: The Wheels of Justice, written by the Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka,’’ he added.
