Meeting the illustrious Wole Soyinka, popularly known as Kongi, a figure I had revered since my youth in Ibadan, profoundly altered the course of my life. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, I was fascinated by his name, deeds, and activism, which kindled my passion for reading. I voraciously consumed stories, books, and publications like magazines, Reader’s Digest, and James Hadley Chase novels.
Decades later, in the early 1990s, I had the honour of promoting Fela Anikulapo and Egypt 80 band in partnership with the Student Union Government of Obafemi Awolowo University. When critical funding was required, Prof. Wole Soyinka generously provided the necessary support, contributing N20,000.
I vividly recall visiting him at his office in Abeokuta, where he was engaged with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) activities at Oke-Ilewo, typing away on his manual typewriter with remarkable speed and focus. Despite his busy schedule, he greeted us warmly and listened attentively to our proposal. His brilliance and dedication left an indelible mark on me, inspiring me to pursue writing in my mind first before I started putting pen on paper. 
Today, I am an author of children’s literature textbooks included in school reading and examination lists across Nigeria. My books are government approved.
Today, I am an author of children’s literature textbooks included in school reading and examination lists across Nigeria. My books are government approved.Our paths crossed again when I conceived the Summer Children Reading Camp, and I was determined to have him inaugurate it. Despite his hectic schedule, he graciously committed to attending and spent over 90 minutes with us, engaging with the children and inspiring them with his presence. The event’s success, driven by his commitment to literary endeavours, propelled SixthSense to continually promote a culture of reading in Nigerian children.
Since then, the SixthSense Summer Children Reading Camp, one of our many advocacy programmes, has grown tremendously, fostering a love for reading in countless children. My encounter with Prof. Wole Soyinka remains a cornerstone of my life, exemplifying the power of dedication, genius, and the profound impact one individual can have on others.
Today, many say I physically resemble WS. I strive to honour this recognition by giving my best in writing, publishing, and serving humanity with all my might. Long live Prof. Wole Soyinka at 90.
-Chief Dr Abiodun Oladimeji Lasile DL
Orunto Baalufe Owu Kingdom Abeokuta
Founder/Coordinator, The SixthSense Initiative and Sixth Sense Series Publications.
