The Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Benin, Prof. Edoba Omoregie has expressed his condolences over the death of a former Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Adamu Baikie, who passed away at the age of 94.
In a statement on Saturday by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr Benedicta Ehanire, Omoregie commiserated with the Baikie family and the academic community.
The VC described the late scholar as a towering figure in education, whose influence spanned Nigeria and the African continent.
Freedomonline reports that Prof. Baikie, who served as VC of the University of Benin from 1978 to 1986 died in Zaria, Kaduna State.
The deceased was also recognised as the first Professor of Education in Northern Nigeria.
Omoregie, described the late Baikie as “an astute educationist and administrator” who charted many innovative and impactful paths in Nigeria’s educational history and across Africa, leaving indelible footprints.
Beyond his tenure at UNIBEN, he explained that the deceased rendered distinguished service as VC of the National University of Lesotho and later the Nasarawa State University.
He said that the former VC contributed significantly to the growth of higher education in different climes.
Omoregie, urged the family of the deceased, to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life devoted to scholarship, leadership and public service.
“He lived a life of immense service within and outside the country, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of academics and administrators,” he said.
He also prayed for the repose of the soul of the late professor, and asked God to grant comfort to his family, friends and associates.
