Aralola Olumuyiwa, popularly known as “Ara,” a female talking drummer, attributes her learning of humility to Nigerian Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Ara commended President Bola Tinubu for renaming the National Arts Theatre as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts. She emphasized the importance of honoring thespians like Soyinka while they are still alive.
“This development is highly welcome. He is our first black Nobel laureate, and honestly, he deserves more recognition. At 90 years old, we cherish his presence among us. I am very proud of his achievements, and we should continue to honor our cultural icons,” Ara expressed.
Reflecting on her interactions with Prof. Soyinka, Ara recounted her first encounter with him at an event in 2007 held in his honor. “I was invited as one of the artists to perform, and afterward, he invited me to his house. He once asked me, ‘Why the talking drum?’ During my 40th birthday, he sent me goodwill messages, which meant a lot to me,” she shared.
From Soyinka, Ara learned humility firsthand. “He does not allow anyone to carry his bag. I was fortunate to carry his bag once, after persuading him to let me. That experience left a profound impression on me,” Ara recalled.
Describing Soyinka as a profound respecter and promoter of African culture, Ara encouraged the younger generation to emulate his values. “One of the virtues to learn from Soyinka is his authenticity. Dare to be yourself, dare to be different,” she urged.