Soyinka Visits GCI, Calls for Stronger Security in Nigerian Schools

On 29th November 2025, Government College Ibadan experienced a truly historic moment as it welcomed one of its most illustrious sons, Wole Soyinka (1946), Nobel Laureate and literary icon.

He was received at the school gate by distinguished Old Boys, including the National President of GCIOBA, Wale Babalakin (’71), Kolade Mosuro (’64) of the Board of Trustees, Femi Babalola (’75), Chairman of the School Governing Board, alongside House Governors and other erudite Old boys. Prof. Soyinka inspected the Cadet Quarter Guard before taking a nostalgic tour of the school he once called home.

Inside one of the school halls, he addressed students of the college, sharing fond memories of his time at GCI and his lifelong bond with fellow old boy, the late Dipo Akinkugbe (’46). He encouraged the students to be good urging them to uphold character and excellence, the timeless values that define generations of GCI boys.

But beyond nostalgia, Prof. Soyinka used the visit to raise a national concern. In remarks that made headlines across the country, he urged the Nigerian government to beef up security around schools nationwide, stressing that the rising attacks, kidnappings, and threats targeting students have become unacceptable. He advocated for <>bsecurity education to be introduced as part of school learning, combining awareness training, practical drills, and safety preparedness for both students and teachers.

Soyinka’s message resonated deeply: schools must remain safe spaces for learning, not zones of fear. His call echoed across national dailies, reinforcing the urgency of protecting Nigeria’s young people and strengthening the nation’s future.

The visit concluded at the GCI Museum, where the Nobel Laureate explored the school's preserved history, a testament to the heritage that shaped him and continues to inspire new generations.