Professor Kenneth Dike: Nigeria’s First Professor and Pioneer of African History

Nigeria proudly remembers the legacy of Professor Kenneth Dike (1917-1983), a towering figure in the nation’s academic history and the first Nigerian to be appointed as a professor. Born in Awka, Anambra State, Professor Dike's contributions to African history and education have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and the academic world.

Professor Kenneth Dike was a renowned historian whose work revolutionized the study of African history. He began his academic journey in Nigeria and later furthered his education in the United Kingdom, where he earned a Ph.D. in History from the University of Aberdeen in 1950. Upon returning to Nigeria, he joined the University College, Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan), where he quickly distinguished himself as a scholar.

In 1956, Professor Dike made history by becoming the first Nigerian to be appointed as a professor, taking on the role of Professor of History at the University of Ibadan. His groundbreaking research and publications, including the seminal works "Trade and Politics in the Niger Delta" and "A Hundred Years of British Rule in Nigeria," challenged prevailing Eurocentric narratives and highlighted the importance of African agency in the continent’s history.

Throughout his career, Professor Dike was committed to the advancement of African scholarship and education. His leadership extended beyond his research, as he also became the first Nigerian Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, where he worked tirelessly to improve the institution and foster a new generation of African scholars.

Professor Dike's achievements have been celebrated across Nigeria and internationally, solidifying his status as a pioneer in the field of African history and a significant contributor to the intellectual heritage of the continent. His legacy continues to inspire generations of scholars and academics who follow in his footsteps.

As Nigeria honors the memory of Professor Kenneth Dike, his contributions to education and academia remain a testament to the enduring impact of his work on the nation and the broader field of African history.