Renowned Nigerian educationist, scholar, university administrator, Professor Adamu Baikie, is dead.
He was aged 94.
His eldest son, Major Muhammad Adamu (retd), announced the sad news, saying his funeral prayers and burial arrangements would be announced later.
Mr Adamu said their father died in his house in Zaria Friday evening.
Prof. Adamu is survived by five children.
A world figure, he was the first Professor of Education in Northern Nigeria and served as Vice Chancellor of several universities, including the University of Benin, Nasarawa State University, and the National University of Lesotho in Southern Africa.
Prof. Adamu was a distinguished alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
He was born in 1931 in Wusasa, Zaria and started his teaching career in Gusau in 1951.
The late scholar became a professor in 1971 and made contributions to education in Northern Nigeria a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Professor Baikie maintained three principles: God, the North, and his family. Hie was committed to education and service to humanity remains an inspiration to many. Throughout his career, he exhibited discipline, respect, hard work, and reading.
Baikie obtained a BSc (Hons) in Education from the University of London in 1964 and a PhD in Education from the University of Wisconsin, USA, in 1968.
He was a fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Education, the West African College of Education, and the Institute of Education, University of London, among others.
When he was the Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin from 1978 to 1983, Baikie undertook several reforms, including the setting up of the Faculty of Agriculture and the introduction of a new curriculum.
He was also Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University from 2001 to 2005 and the National University of Lesotho in Southern Africa from 1998 to 2000.
Baikie’s milestones in education in Nigeria extends beyond his academic achievements as he was a strong advocate for quality education and played a key role in shaping the country’s education policy.
His contributions to the development of education in Northern Nigeria have earned him several awards and recognition, including the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2005.
Already, many across the country have started paying tributes following the news of Baikie’s death as many describe him as a dedicated educationist and a true leader. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians, and his contributions to education will be remembered for years to come.
