Nobel Prize winning writer and critic Wole Soyinka revealed on Tuesday that his U.S. visa has been revoked by the American consulate in Lagos. The 91-year-old Nobel laureate stated he was “very satisfied” with the revocation and confirmed the decision during a press conference.Soyinka, renowned for his outspoken views, previously held U.S. permanent residency but surrendered his green card in 2016 during former President Donald Trump’s first term, citing objections to U.S. policy. He explained that the consulate instructed him to bring his passport in person so the visa cancellation could be processed directly at the counter.
According to a letter he read to the press reportedly from the U.S. State Department, the revocation was carried out under rules that allow a consular officer or the Secretary of State to cancel a non-immigrant visa at any time and at their discretion. Washington has not yet issued a response to requests for comment.
Over the years, Soyinka has taught and received honors at institutions such as Harvard and Cornell and continues to be an influential voice on human rights, governance, and culture in Africa and around the world.
