UNIBEN mourns as former VC dies at 94

The University of Benin has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of a former Vice-Chancellor, who died at the age of 94.

In a statement released on Saturday, the current Vice-Chancellor commiserated with the family of the deceased and the academic community. He described the late scholar as a towering figure in education, whose influence spanned Nigeria and the African continent.

The late academic served as Vice-Chancellor of UNIBEN from 1978 to 1986 and was recognised as the first Professor of Education in Northern Nigeria. Beyond his tenure at UNIBEN, he also served as Vice-Chancellor at the National University of Lesotho and Nasarawa State University, contributing significantly to the growth of higher education across multiple countries.

Describing him as “an astute educationist and administrator,” the current Vice-Chancellor highlighted the late scholar’s innovative contributions to the educational sector and his enduring legacy.

He encouraged the family to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life devoted to scholarship, leadership, and public service. “His life of immense service within and outside the country will continue to inspire generations of academics and administrators,” he said.

The university prayed for the repose of the soul of the late professor and for comfort for his family, friends, and associates.