Tinubu pays tribute as Prof. Jibril Aminu passes on at 85

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to the late Professor Jibril Muhammad Aminu, describing the renowned academic and statesman as “one of Nigeria’s most decorated medical professionals” and a patriot who straddled academia and public service with rare brilliance.

Professor Aminu passed away at the age of 85, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the country.

In a statement issued on Thursday, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the family, friends, and the government and people of Adamawa State.

“I extend my condolences to the family and friends of Professor Jibril Muhammad Aminu, a respected academic and political leader who passed away at the age of 85,” the President said.

Describing Professor Aminu as a man of immense intellectual stature and unflinching dedication, Tinubu noted: “He straddled his profession and politics exceptionally, bringing erudition and brilliance to statecraft.”

A Professor of Cardiology, Aminu’s academic and professional credentials were among the most distinguished in the country.

According to Tinubu, “In his professional life, he earned many laurels for his grit, hard work, and expertise.”

The President highlighted Aminu’s illustrious academic journey, listing his fellowships with top institutions: “He was a fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science, a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, London, a fellow of the West African College of Physicians, and a fellow of the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College.”

Tinubu also acknowledged Aminu’s critical roles in advancing education and research in Nigeria, saying: “He was also a consultant in medicine, Senior Lecturer and Sub-Dean of Clinical Studies at the University of Ibadan Medical School (1973–1975), Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (1975–1979), visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University College of Medicine in Washington DC (1979–1980), and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri (1980–1985).”

The late professor’s impact extended beyond academia. In public service, he held several high-profile positions, including Minister of Education and later Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources between 1989 and 1992, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States from 1999 to 2003, and Senator for Adamawa Central from 2003 to 2011.

“Professor Aminu served meritoriously in public service,” Tinubu noted.

“He epitomised statesmanship and was committed to building a greater Nigeria.”

While acknowledging the profound national loss, the President encouraged Nigerians to take solace in Aminu’s enduring legacy: “Professor Aminu’s passing is a profound loss to the nation, but as we grieve, we must find solace in his legacy. He left remarkable imprints in the sands of time.”

The President concluded with a prayer for the late professor’s eternal rest: “May he find eternal rest in Aljana Firdaus. And may Allah forgive his sins.”