Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva yesterday hosted Nigerian Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, in a meeting that highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy and Afro-Brazilian heritage.

The visit marks a significant moment in strengthening ties between Brazil and Africa, particularly through the shared history and cultural connections rooted in the African diaspora.

During the engagement, President Lula and Professor Soyinka discussed the role of literature, history, and education in bridging cultures and fostering mutual understanding.

Soyinka’s “Return to Africa” project, symbolising a spiritual and cultural reconnection with African roots, took centre stage as a bold initiative tracing the historic transatlantic slave trade route, culminating in the symbolic “Point of No Return” in Badagry, Nigeria.

Soyinka described the project as more than a physical journey. “It is a symbolic return,” he explained. “Not about physically going back, but spiritually reconnecting with our African heritage, highlighting the resilience and strength of the African people.” He emphasised that the collaboration between Nigeria and Brazil, under the leadership of Presidents Tinubu and Lula, is vital for this renewed cultural alliance.

“Leaders like President Tinubu and President Lula are showing a collaborative effort that is crucial for cultural exchange and mutual understanding,” Soyinka affirmed.

During his visit, Soyinka presented President Lula with his book Mito, Literatura e o Mundo Africano (Myth, Literature, and the African World), a profound exploration of Yoruba mythology and African intellectual traditions, symbolising the enduring cultural ties binding Africa and Brazil.

The presentation underscored the literary and cultural dimension enriching diplomatic relations between the two nations, complementing Tinubu’s bilateral talks with Lula on trade, energy, agriculture, and defence.

Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Yemi Cardoso, celebrated the significance of the visit as well. “This state visit and the signature of MoUs have reinforced the importance of collaboration between Brazil and Nigeria,” Cardoso said. “President Lula mentioned how trade has dropped between us and stressed the urgency to reverse that.” Reflecting on the cultural depth of the gathering, Cardoso remarked, “As an Afro-Brazilian descendant, I take great pride in this moment of connection and mixing of peoples.” He also underlined the practical impact of new direct flights, calling them a “game changer” expected to bolster business and cultural exchanges.