In a recent ceremony, President Bola Tinubu commissioned a new road infrastructure in the Guzape district of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The road, previously known as the M18 road, has been renamed the Chinua Achebe Expressway in honor of the late Nigerian novelist and poet.
Chinua Achebe, who passed away in 2013 at the age of 83, was a renowned figure in African literature and is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern African literature. His work has had a significant impact on the literary world, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers.
The naming of the road is a testament to Achebe’s enduring influence on Nigerian culture and society. The move is also seen as a way to promote cultural heritage and recognition of the country’s literary giants.
In a related development, President Tinubu had earlier named another road in Abuja after Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka. The road, which connects the northern parkway to the outer northern expressway (ONEX), was named after Soyinka in recognition of his contributions to Nigerian literature.
The FCT administration recommended the naming of the road after Soyinka, who was the first African to win the Nobel Prize for literature. The move is seen as a way to promote Nigerian culture and celebrate the country’s literary achievements.
Meanwhile, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had earlier named Abuja’s southern parkway after President Tinubu. The southern parkway spans all the way from the National Christian Centre to ring road one and is considered one of the city’s major spines.
The recent naming of roads in Abuja after cultural icons reflects the country’s commitment to promoting its cultural heritage and recognizing the achievements of its notable figures.
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