Nigeria's First Professor of Linguistics, Prof. Ayo Bamgbose, Dies at 94

Nigeria's first Professor of Linguistics, Professor Emeritus Ayo Bamgbose, has passed away at the age of 94.

The renowned scholar died on Saturday after a brief illness in Ibadan. A pioneer in the field of Linguistics, he played a significant role in advancing language studies in Nigeria and across Africa.

Prof. Bamgbose joined the University of Ibadan in 1963 and became a professor at the age of 36. In 1994, he was named Emeritus Professor in recognition of his outstanding contributions to academia. He was also a recipient of the Nigerian National Order of Merit, NNOM.

Throughout his distinguished career, he mentored generations of scholars and championed the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages.

May Almighty God grant him eternal rest and comfort his family, colleagues, students, and loved ones. Amen.