Ex-UniAbuja VC, Nuhu Yaqub, passes away at 74
The academic community mourns the loss of Professor Nuhu Yaqub, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, who passed away at the age of 74. The distinguished scholar died on Saturday following a brief illness at a private hospital in Abuja.
Born on March 3, 1951, in Okene, Kogi State, Professor Yaqub began his educational journey with Qur’anic studies, completing it in 1963. He proceeded to Nurul Islam Primary School, Okene, in 1961 and completed his primary education in 1967.
Professor Yaqub’s illustrious academic career saw him earn a Bachelor’s degree before embarking on teaching at Lennon Memorial College, Okene. He later joined the University of Sokoto (now Usmanu Danfodio University) as a graduate assistant, where he made remarkable strides in his field.
With support from the university and a federal government scholarship, he obtained an MA from the University of Toronto, Canada, and a PhD from the University of Sussex, England, in 1989. Rising through the ranks, he became a Professor of Political Science in 1998.
During his tenure at Usmanu Danfodio University, Professor Yaqub served as Head of the Political Science Department, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and later as Deputy Vice Chancellor from 1999 to 2003. He went on to serve as Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja and later at Sokoto State University.
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The Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, expressed shock and sadness over Yaqub’s passing, describing him as a “renowned scholar and an academic giant.”
“Professor Yaqub’s commitment to education and research has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s intellectual landscape. His passing is a monumental loss, not only to Kogi State but to the nation,” Sulaiman said.
He extended condolences to the late professor’s family, the government and people of Kogi State, and academic communities across the country.
Professor Nuhu Yaqub’s career was marked by a dedication to fostering education and research. His impact on students, policymakers, and Nigeria’s academic growth will be remembered for generations.
The academic world bids farewell to a pioneer whose contributions continue to inspire.
Written by Sakinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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