President Muhammadu Buhari has sent condolences to family, friends and associates of Prof. Akin Mabogunje, who passed on at 90.
Buhari declared that Mabogunje’s “departure will be greatly felt by the nation, especially the academia”.
The president’s condolence message is contained in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, on Thursday in Abuja.
He commiserated with Mabogunje’s network of professional associates and experts, at home and abroad, who have shared in his vision of nation building, with cerebral works in urbanisation, human and regional development, geographic perspectives and shelter provision.
Buhari noted the depth, reach and extensive research of the first African President of the International Geographical Union.
Mabogunje was the first African to be elected as a Foreign Associate of the United States National Academy of Sciences in 1999, and in 2017, was elected a Foreign Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and received the Vautrin Lud Prize.
According to the president, Mabogunje’s contribution to education in Nigeria, and in many parts of the world, remains indelible, especially the leadership positions he held, which include Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Ogun State University.
He was also Chairman of Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy; Member, Board of Trustees, Nigerian National Merit Award Endowment Fund; and later Chairman of the Fund.
Buhari prayed that the almighty God would grant the renowned geographer a peaceful rest and comfort his family.
In a condolence message, former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, said:
“I received with shock the demise of renowned geographer and erudite scholar, Professor Akin Mabogunje.
“Mabogunje, who was Nigeria’s first Professor of Geography and first African President of the International Geographical Union, was an academic colossus, brilliant town-planning expert and celebrated public servant.
“I recall that he was pioneer Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University), Ago-Iwoye. He equally demonstrated professional competence in several spheres at both national and international levels.
“During my service as Governor of Ogun State, he was instrumental to some of our significant policy initiatives, including the Lagos-Ogun Megacity projects as well as the 25-Year Regional Development Masterplan. I remain eternally grateful for his humanitarian services.
“While the late Prof. Mabogunje will be greatly missed by all, I take solace that he lived a fulfilled life.
“I pray God Almighty to repose to the soul of the departed and give his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable passing”.
Signed
His Excellency,
Otunba Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FAEng,
Governor of Ogun State (2003-2011).
