“I Learnt Humility From Prof. Wole Soyinka” – Ara Reveals

Ara recently expressed her support for President Bola Tinubu's plan to rename the National Arts Theatre the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in an interview with the Nigerian News Agency (NAN) in Lagos.

Recalling her first encounter with Soyinka in 2007, Ara said she saw him at a gala held in his honor in 2007. She remembered that Soyinka later asked her to visit his home and showed interest in the talking drum she had chosen. The percussionist also commended Soyinka for her thoughtfulness in wishing her a happy 40th birthday.

Emphasizing Soyinka’s modesty,Ara shared, “I learnt humility from Prof. Soyinka, he does not allow anyone to carry his bag, I was only opportune to carry his bag once, that was after dragging it from him. This speaks volumes to me.”

Ara hailed Soyinka as a great respecter and lover of African culture, encouraging the next generation to follow his sincerity. She added, “Another virtue people should emulate from Soyinka is that he is a real and genuine individual, so, I challenge everyone, dare to be you, dare to be different, don’t be anybody.”

The talking drummer also urged the federal government to continue recognizing cultural heroes while they are still alive, citing Soyinka’s tremendous achievements at the age of 90.