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Emina Raised UIAA’s Global Profile — Another Ex Leader Tells President Gajir, Urges Unity and Constitutionality

Prof. Kemi Emina

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr 
Former Worldwide 2nd Vice President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Chief Sir Francis Odion, has praised past and current leadership of the association while calling for deeper respect for the UIAA constitution and unity among its members.

Chief Odion made the remarks when he received the Worldwide President of UIAA, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, at his residence in Benin City, during Gajir’s ongoing peace and consolidation visitation to UIAA Branches and Chapters across the country.

Governor B. Zulum of Borno State and Prof. Kemi Emina

Reflecting on the association’s journey, Chief Odion attributed UIAA’s rise to global recognition to the transformational leadership of former President, Professor Kemi Emina.

“Until Prof. Emina became president, UIAA wasn’t this globally known. He brought the association into the limelight. He built the foundation of what we enjoy today. I admire his selfless spirit,” he said.

Odion, who also served as Chairman of the Edo State Branch and is a retired Permanent Secretary, described Dr. Gajir as “cool-headed and focused,” expressing confidence in his ability to preserve and build upon the legacies of past leaders.

He, however, cautioned against the rising tide of internal disagreements, urging members to align with the association’s constitution. “Many of those causing problems are fully aware of the constitution but choose to disregard it. That is the root of the crisis,” he observed.

Odion recalled his pivotal role in presiding over the last constitutional amendment exercise during his tenure as 2nd Vice President, emphasizing that respect for the constitution remains critical to UIAA’s growth and stability.

Prof. Kemi Emina

Sharing his personal sacrifices, he narrated how he once collapsed and was hospitalized during an official assignment in service to the association. He also spoke about stepping down his presidential ambition in support of Prof. Elsie Olufunke Adewoye, to promote equitable regional representation.

“That move made it possible for the presidency to eventually rotate to the North, leading to the emergence of Prof. S. G. Nyityo. UIAA is a national institution, and its leadership must reflect its diversity,” Odion added.

He expressed delight that Edo State was the first branch visited by President Gajir, describing it as an honour and a testament to the branch’s enduring contributions to the association.

In response, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, accompanied by the Chairman of the Edo Branch, Prof. O. B. Osadolor, thanked the elder statesman for his warm reception and invaluable advice.

He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering peace and unity within the UIAA family, calling on members to separate personal grievances from the collective interests of the association.

Chief Sir Francis Odion flanked by Prof O. B. Osadolor, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, and Publicist Abel Johngold

“We are one family. UIAA must not be a platform for personal vendettas. This visit is about reconciliation, learning from our elders, and building bridges,” Gajir stated.

The interaction between the two leaders underlined a shared desire for constitutionalism, rotational leadership, and unity in diversity, setting a hopeful tone for UIAA’s future.

Prof. Kemi Emina

ACOMIN Rallies Delta Communities to Tackle Malaria Through Grassroots Action

By XAJO SPADE NG

Communities in Delta State have been urged to strengthen their Community Health Development Committees (CHDCs) to drive household-level malaria prevention through increased use of mosquito nets, early testing, and improved health education.

This call was made by Sir Austin Uwede, the State Programme Officer of the Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunization, and Nutrition (ACOMIN), during a media briefing in Asaba on the Global Fund Malaria Community-Led Monitoring Project currently being implemented in the state.

Uwede emphasized that the private sector must begin to recognize malaria as a major productivity issue and contribute meaningfully to its eradication. He called for greater corporate involvement through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as support for Insecticide-Treated Net (ITN) campaigns, upgrading health facilities, and training healthcare workers.

He also stressed the critical role of the media in reorienting community leaders and stakeholders toward active ownership of primary healthcare facilities in their areas. According to him, increased community participation will significantly improve the effectiveness of healthcare services.

Highlighting some of ACOMIN’s successes under the project, Uwede noted the rehabilitation of a water pumping machine at a Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Ughelli South, restoration of electricity and donation of plastic chairs to Jeddo PHC in Okpe, and the ejection of illegal occupants from staff quarters at Owhelogbo PHC in Isoko North. He also cited the donation of a blood pressure apparatus by the community and provision of waste bins by a local motorcycle (Okada) rider to Isheagu General Hospital in Aniocha South as examples of commendable community support.

Uwede expressed confidence that continued collaboration with the media would amplify awareness of ACOMIN’s interventions, encouraging more community leaders to embrace and support the project for the benefit of their people.

In his opening remarks, the Delta State Chairman of ACOMIN, Pastor Greg Sifo, described the media briefing as a vital platform to reflect on the progress made so far and to reinforce strategies to ensure that no community is left behind in ACOMIN’s health initiatives.

He noted that the media plays a pivotal role in mobilizing community members for meetings, workshops, and joint activities, as well as announcing volunteer opportunities and encouraging public participation in decision-making. Pastor Sifo added that media engagement is crucial for informing the public about health concerns such as malaria prevention, vaccination campaigns, project goals, and available services.

Representatives of various partner organizations also gave goodwill messages at the event. They included Joy Dibashi of the State Malaria Elimination Program (SMEP); Mrs. Grace Sifo of the Delta State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS; Mrs. Mercy Momoh of the Society for Family Health; Mr. Azubuike of the Delta State Primary Healthcare Development Agency; and Dr. Yinusa Adekola representing the Muslim community.

They commended ACOMIN for its interventions in healthcare facilities across the state and stressed the importance of regular mosquito net usage and clearing of overgrown vegetation—especially now, as the rainy season intensifies.

Addressing the issue of test kits, Mrs. Sifo disclosed that arrangements were already at an advanced stage for their procurement. She noted that the Agency had paid an advocacy visit to the Secretary to the State Government to address the current shortage of test kits in some health facilities.

In his remarks, Mr. Azubuike revealed that the Delta State Government, in partnership with global bodies such as the World Bank, is currently undertaking renovation works across several Primary Healthcare Centres. He assured that facilities yet to be renovated would soon benefit from the exercise.

No blackmail will change me, I’ll take you out if you sabotage me – Wike

Gov Nyesome Wike

By Seun Opejobi
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday, vowed never to succumb to any form of intimidation or blackmail in the discharge of his duties.
Wike vowed to take out anybody who attempts to sabotage his efforts of transforming the FCT.
Speaking during an inspection visit to the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja, Wike vowed never to allow anybody to takeover Federal government’s facility.
The Minister pledged to restore the Golf club back to its old glory.
Crisis over structural reforms had led to an indefinite shut down of the Abuja Golf Club.
However, Wike said: “We will not allow anybody to take what belongs to the federal government. No amount of blackmail will change me. If anyone moves to sabotage me, I will take you out.
“Government is not a good manager, hence why we appointed the interim management committee. You can’t take over the club because we appointed you to manage the club.”
The Minister assured of renovating the club house but urged the institution to pay ground rent.
Wike vowed to seal the club if it fails to pay ground rent.
Lately, Wike has been critical on the payment of ground rent in Abuja, stressing that the capital city survives on tax and not allocation.
“We will invite Julius Berger, who originally built this club, to see how we can begin the renovation in phases. I will seal the club if the ground rent is not paid,” he said.
Commenting, the chairman Board for Trustees, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem appealed to Wike intervene in the club’s crisis.
Dongban-Mensem said the club will improve the economy when renovated.

Asaba Land Dispute Resolved—PWANMAX Group Refutes Allegations of Encroachment

PWAN Group

By Our Correspondent

ASABA — The management of PWANMAX Group, a subsidiary of the renowned real estate conglomerate Property World Africa Network (PWAN Group), has debunked recent claims of land encroachment by one of its clients, Mr. Osemele Theophilus Marshal, describing the allegations as false, misleading, and an attempt to smear the company’s reputation.

In a statement issued to journalists on Thursday, the Chairman of PWANMAX Group, Dr. Augustine Onwumere, clarified that Mr. Osemele purchased a 928-square-meter plot of land in 2021 at the company’s Max Height Estate located along Admiralty Drive, Umuedi, off Ibusa Expressway, Delta State. According to Onwumere, the plot was fully allocated that same year, but the client failed to fence or develop the land, as required by the company’s policy to prevent encroachment.

“Clients are expected to either fence or commence development on their plots shortly after allocation,” Dr. Onwumere stated. “Mr. Osemele ignored this directive for over four years, despite visiting the land on multiple occasions while in Nigeria.”

The company said it was surprised when Mr. Osemele recently alleged that his plot had been encroached upon. Investigations revealed that the demarcation beacons were no longer visible, likely due to prolonged neglect and third-party activity within the estate.

“Once he brought the issue to our attention, we acted swiftly,” the statement continued. “The company worked with Mr. Osemele’s own surveyor to reestablish the correct boundaries. His plot was recaptured in full—928 square meters—and re-demarcated accordingly.”

To further protect the client’s interests, PWANMAX said it constructed a dwarf fence around the plot at its own expense to avoid future disputes. A new registered survey plan and deed of assignment were also issued to Mr. Osemele.

“Despite our goodwill and the proactive steps we took to rectify the situation, Mr. Osemele has not acknowledged or appreciated the company’s efforts,” Dr. Onwumere noted. “We are now requesting that he reimburses the company for the cost of the fence, and most importantly, desists from spreading false and damaging information.”

PWANMAX reassured its clients and the general public of its unwavering commitment to professionalism, customer satisfaction, and integrity in all real estate dealings.

It will be recalled that Mr. Osemele Theophilus Marshal recently petitioned the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, over alleged encroachment on his land. He also accused some PWAN staff of conniving with agents to distort the boundaries of his property—an accusation the company says is baseless, especially after having resolved the issue and restored his plot in full.

PWAN Group

“We remain focused on delivering value to our clients,” the company added, “and no amount of blackmail will derail our commitment to excellence in the real estate sector.”

Delta Polytechnic Scandal: Questions of Bias Rock Ministerial Panel

Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku

By Our Investigative Correspondent

Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, once a flagship of academic excellence, is now engulfed in a deepening crisis, with disturbing allegations of corruption, certificate racketeering, and administrative failure. But in a twist that has rattled public confidence, the Ministerial Committee set up to investigate the scandal is itself under fire—accused of ethnic bias, political interference, and an attempted whitewash.

What began as a probe into institutional rot is now spiraling into a crisis of credibility for the investigating panel.

Panel Under Scrutiny

At the heart of the controversy is the composition of the Ministerial Committee. Independent investigations reveal that at least three members, including the embattled Rector Professor Emmanuel Achuenu, share the same Ndokwa ethnic heritage. The Committee is chaired by Hon. Christopher Ifeanyi Osakwe, an appointee with close political ties to powerful figures in the state, while Mrs. Bridget Odobor, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, serves as Secretary.

Observers say the panel’s structure appears skewed in favour of the Rector, raising serious concerns over the integrity and neutrality of the investigation.

“Appointing close associates and ethnic allies of the Rector to lead this probe is an insult to justice,” a senior academic staff member remarked. “How can they be expected to hold him accountable?”

Allegations of Interference and Manipulation

Sources within the institution allege that Professor Achuenu is working behind the scenes to influence the Committee’s outcome. Ties between him and several panel members reportedly predate the investigation, prompting fears that the process is compromised.

One whistleblower told reporters: “The Rector is fighting hard to control the narrative. He’s mobilizing political connections to suppress key testimonies and protect his loyalists.”

Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku

The Rector’s vague public response—”We are waiting for the Ministerial Committee’s report”—has done little to allay public concerns.

Weak Investigations, Strong Evidence

According to insider accounts, the Committee has conducted only a shallow review of the allegations, interviewing a limited number of people, including suspended Registrar Jude Okocha and Nduka Charles, both previously linked to certificate fraud.

Meanwhile, fresh allegations of financial mismanagement have surfaced. Professor Achuenu is accused of spending N48 million without proper documentation during the last accreditation process and authorizing over N500 million in expenditures without due process.

Equally troubling are accusations that key figures involved in forgery rackets remain in the system—protected by the Rector despite overwhelming evidence against them.

A Campus in Disarray

Morale among staff is at an all-time low, with many accusing the Rector of using divide-and-rule tactics to silence dissent. Administrative systems have reportedly broken down, and fears are growing that degrees from the institution may be rejected internationally due to its tainted image.

“This is no longer an internal matter,” one lecturer warned. “The credibility of our graduates is on the line.”

The crisis has echoes of a similar battle in 2018, when then-Rector Professor Stella Chiemeke (now Vice Chancellor of Delta State University, Agbor) waged a war against certificate fraud. Sadly, insiders believe the corrupt networks she fought so hard to dismantle have resurfaced—stronger and more deeply embedded.

Calls for Government Action

A leading civil rights organization has lauded Governor Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Oborevwori for his reforms in the education sector, but is calling for urgent intervention.

“The government’s efforts to revamp tertiary education risk being derailed,” the group said in a statement. “We urge the Governor to reconstitute the probe panel with respected, independent professionals who have no links to the parties involved.”

Alarmingly, some staff in the Registry Department—allegedly involved in forgery cases—continue to operate freely, and in some cases, defend accused persons in court.

The Final Plea: Restore Trust Now

Pressure is now mounting on Governor Oborevwori to restore public trust by acting decisively.

“The current Committee has lost credibility,” said one union representative. “We need an impartial team that reflects fairness, not loyalty. The Governor must act swiftly—the world is watching.”

A faculty member summed it up poignantly: “We cannot let our children suffer for the sins of a few. Delta Polytechnic was once a leading institution in Nigeria. We must fight to reclaim its honour.”

As the Polytechnic community—and the state at large—await the Governor’s next move, one thing is clear: the battle to rescue Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, from systemic decay has only just begun.

Hon. Adingwupu Celebrates Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at 62, Commends His Visionary Leadership and Transformational Stewardship

Hon. (Pastor) Paul Adingwupu, a foremost political and community leader in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, has joined thousands of well-wishers to felicitate the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday.

In a goodwill message made available to the press, Hon. (Pastor) Adingwupu extolled Governor Oborevwori as “a visionary leader whose impactful presence continues to foster unity and drive sustainable development across the state.”

According to him, the current administration, under the leadership of Governor Oborevwori, has brought about “remarkable and transformative progress in key sectors of the state’s economy, through pragmatic governance, people-centred policies, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of all Deltans.”

Hon. Adingwupu further prayed for divine wisdom, good health, and renewed strength for the Governor, to enable him to continue to lead the state to even greater heights.

“I heartily wish His Excellency a joyful birthday celebration and many more fruitful years of purposeful leadership in the service of Delta State and humanity,” he concluded.

Experts Warn Against One-Party Dominance as Seadogs Spotlight Defections and Fiscal Autonomy at Annual Barracuda Feast

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

As concerns grow over Nigeria’s political trajectory edging towards a de facto one-party state, experts, academics, and civic advocates have converged to raise red flags over the implications for the country’s hard-earned democracy.

The warning was issued during the 2025 Feast of Barracuda, hosted by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) at the Anchor Point, Asaba, Delta State. The civic discourse, themed “How Political Defections in Nigeria Impede the Accumulation of Strategic Management Experience in Government” and “The Influence of Fiscal Autonomy on Good Governance at the Local Government Level,” served as a platform to reflect on 29 years of democratic rule and its current challenges.

The Feast of Barracuda, an annual signature event of the Seadogs, is dedicated to promoting civic dialogue, public accountability, and national development. It brings together scholars, policymakers, and civil society actors to brainstorm, analyze, and propose practical solutions to Nigeria’s most pressing sociopolitical and economic challenges.

In her opening remarks, the Chairperson of the event, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, Member representing Oshimili South in the Delta State House of Assembly, applauded the Pyrates Confraternity for sustaining a tradition of civic engagement that speaks directly to the soul of the nation.

“This gathering provides an important platform to interrogate governance issues and deepen public understanding of the values that must underpin our democracy,” she said.

Also speaking, the Capoon of the Vito Corsica Deck, Comrade Michael Chuks Nwaidei, emphasized that the Feast of Barracuda remains a powerful expression of the confraternity’s founding principles—social justice, humanism, and egalitarianism.

Vito Corsica Deck of NAS Feast of Barracuda, FoB

Political Defections Undermine Governance — Prof. Oghojafor

The Keynote Address was delivered by Prof. Roberts Dode, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Prof. Ben Oghojafor. He drew a direct link between Nigeria’s instability in policy execution and the culture of political defections, which he said disrupts the accumulation of strategic experience in governance.

“The unending wave of defections weakens party ideology, breaks continuity in governance, and further erodes public trust,” Prof. Dode noted.
“To move forward, Nigeria must institutionalize meritocracy, strengthen party systems, promote policy continuity, and entrench civic education and accountability.”

Local Government Autonomy Key to Grassroots Development

On the second theme, Dr. Kelvin Obi Ezenyili, Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area—represented by Barr. (Mrs.) Ndidi Emmanuella Nwulu, Head of Legal Services—highlighted the transformative impact of fiscal autonomy at the local level.

He outlined its benefits, including greater transparency, enhanced infrastructure development, improved investor confidence, and deeper community engagement. However, he cautioned that the absence of a regulatory framework to shield local councils from undue interference, along with the lack of reliable population data for planning, remain significant challenges.

Celebrating Civic Excellence

The event climaxed with the ceremonial unveiling of the symbolic Barracuda fish, followed by the presentation of awards to Hon. Bridget Anyafulu and Prof. Ben Oghojafor for their outstanding contributions to democratic discourse and public service.

The 2025 Feast of Barracuda once again reaffirmed the National Association of Seadogs’ role as a beacon of civic consciousness, pushing for a Nigeria that is more accountable, participatory, and rooted in enduring democratic values.

Dr. Terrumun Gajir Leads UIAA Worldwide to Alake of Egbaland, Receives Royal Endorsement and a Call to Action

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

In a royal gathering that celebrated heritage, leadership, and intellectual legacy, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, Worldwide President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), led the Association’s Executive on a landmark courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, The Okukenu IV, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland.

The visit, held at the Alake’s palace in Abeokuta, was marked by heartfelt reflections, powerful symbolism, and a renewed commitment to the values of Nigeria’s premier university.

HRM Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo CFR The Okukenu IV Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland and UIAA Worldwide President, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir

Welcoming the delegation with regal warmth, Oba Gbadebo—himself a distinguished alumnus of the University of Ibadan and a member of the UIAA Board of Trustees—fondly recounted his student activism days and his journey through the Nigerian Army. He described his time at UI as one of the most defining chapters of his life, proudly affirming that “UI was the best thing that ever happened to me and many others.”

The monarch echoed former President Goodluck Jonathan’s famous words that “every graduate in Nigeria is a UIte” because of UI’s far-reaching academic influence, particularly through the lecturers it has produced across Nigerian institutions. He also referenced Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, written by a UI alumnus, as evidence of the university’s cultural and intellectual penetration. “If you’ve read Achebe’s book,” he said, “then you’ve been touched by the spirit of UI.”

In a moment of reflection and recommitment, Oba Gbadebo pledged to become more active in UIAA affairs beyond his role as a trustee. “I want to do more than just bear the title,” he said, assuring the visiting team of his support for the association’s mission.

Addressing matters raised by Dr. Gajir, including key issues about the association’s growth and structure, the monarch promised to review the constitution and relevant documents and to respond after due consideration. He also expressed immense joy in hosting fellow UI alumni, saying their presence brought pride and renewed purpose.

Dr. Gajir, in his remarks, described the visit as strategic and symbolic, saying the Executive came to brief the Alake on the state of the UIAA and to seek his royal advice and blessing. He expressed profound appreciation for the monarch’s warmth and generosity.

“Your Majesty’s kindness reflects your deep-rooted generosity and inspires us to uphold the values of community, service, and excellence,” Dr. Gajir said, offering prayers for the monarch’s continued reign in peace, wisdom, and good health.

The visit not only reinforced the enduring legacy of the University of Ibadan but also deepened the bond between its alumni and one of the institution’s most illustrious sons.

Court Hears NBM Suit Against Edo Government Over Alleged Illegal Demolition

By Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR

The Federal High Court in Benin has commenced hearing in the lawsuit filed by the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa against the Edo State Government over the alleged unlawful demolition of its national secretariat located at Oba Ewuare II Cultural Centre 7, Arena Way, Amagba, Benin City.

The suit names Governor Monday Okpebholo as a key defendant, alongside other officials, over what NBM describes as the illegal trespass and destruction of its property.

NBM Secretariat

A 28-member legal team led by Chief Reginald Asiuwhu filed the case on June 4, 2025, seeking redress and compensation for what it terms a gross violation of its constitutional rights to freedom of association and ownership of property.

Representing the Edo State Government in court were prominent lawyers Steve Okuro, O.C. Igbinedion, C.C. Chinedu, and H.A. Bello SAN.

At Thursday’s court session, the Edo State Government’s legal team, led by Bello SAN, argued that the third defendant had not yet been properly served with court papers. Justice Chukwu Obiozor requested proof of service from NBM’s lawyers, but they were unable to provide it, citing a misplaced document.

Justice Obiozor consequently adjourned the case to June 16, 2025, directing both parties to come prepared with complete documentation and to strictly adhere to legal procedures.

Outside the courtroom, Chief Asiuwhu expressed strong confidence in NBM’s case.

“NBM of Africa is a charitable, non-governmental organization whose secretariat was illegally demolished by the Edo State Government,” he stated. “Before any responsible government demolishes any property, there must be a valid court order. This reckless act is why we are here—to challenge and have it declared unconstitutional.”

Asiuwhu also criticized the government’s labeling of NBM as a “cult organization,” calling it defamatory and unjust.

“Assuming, without conceding, that there are a few bad eggs in the organization, it does not make the entire organization bad. NBM is properly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in line with Nigerian law,” he emphasized.

He argued that the government should have reviewed security footage of the NBM secretariat before taking any drastic action.

He described the demolished building as a “gigantic, well-furnished structure” that also served the community for social events. “How could they demolish it without notice, without giving us a chance to salvage anything, and without any fair hearing?” he asked.

He concluded, “The Edo State Government will pay heavily for what they have done. This will be the last illegal demolition they carry out. We are not just fighting for NBM but for all registered organizations that might be targeted in the future.”

Dr. Sir Chukwudi Ijeoma, President of NBM of Africa Upper South East, also weighed in: “We came here to challenge this illegal demolition. We are a registered organization, and the government should recognize that,” he said.

The NBM of Africa is challenging the demolition of its international secretariat as a violation of its fundamental human rights.

Lawyers representing the Edo State Government declined to comment on the case.

It will be recalled that on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, the Edo State Government allegedly mobilized bulldozers and staff to the international secretariat of the organization to carry out the demolition of the entire building without prior notice.

UI Alumni Association Mourns Prof. Jibrin Aminu, Celebrates a Life of Distinguished Service Veteran scholar, politician, and diplomat dies at 85

By ABEL JOHNGOLD, mnipr 

The University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Worldwide has expressed profound grief over the passing of one of its most illustrious members, Professor Jibrin Aminu, who died at the age of 85.

Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, Worldwide President of the UIAA, in a statement, described the late Professor Aminu as “one of the finest products of the University of Ibadan” and “a shining ambassador whose contributions have left an indelible mark.”

Born in August 1939 in Adamawa State, Professor Aminu’s academic journey began at the University of Ibadan, where he graduated in Medicine in 1965. He later earned a Ph.D. from the prestigious Royal Post-Graduate Medical School.

Professor Aminu’s career was a tapestry of excellence in academia, public service, and diplomacy. He served as:

  • Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (1975–79), shaping Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
  • Visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University, Washington D.C. (1979–80).
  • Vice-Chancellor, University of Maiduguri (1980–85), guiding the institution through crucial years.
  • Minister of Education (1989–90), where he championed educational reforms.
  • Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (1990–92), overseeing key developments in Nigeria’s oil sector.
  • Nigerian Ambassador to the USA (1999–2003), fostering bilateral relations.
  • Senator for Adamawa Central (2003–07), representing his people with distinction.

His leadership journey also included serving as Professor of Medicine at the University of Maiduguri (1979–95). In 2010, he was honored with the title “Bobaselu of The Source” by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Sijuwade, in recognition of his contributions to national unity.

“UIAA Worldwide will deeply miss Prof. Aminu,” Dr. Gajir remarked. “His dedication, scholarship, and statesmanship embody the values we hold dear. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”

Inna lillahi wa Inna ilaihir Rajiun. May Allah (SWT) forgive Prof. Jibrin Aminu’s shortcomings and grant him Jannah Firdaus.

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