Prominent Nigerian leaders, including Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), Prof. Jerry Gana, Senator David Mark, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State and former SGF, Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, on Thursday converged in Abuja to honour late renowned educationist and former vice-chancellor, Prof. David Adamu Baikie, describing him as a towering source of inspiration to generations of Nigerians.
Prof. Baikie, who died at the age of 94, was celebrated for his rare integrity, selfless service and enduring contributions to education in Nigeria and across Africa.
Chairman of the occasion, Lt. Gen. Danjuma, described the late academic as a man of exceptional character and leadership, urging Nigerian youths to emulate his life of honesty, discipline and dedication to service.
Danjuma said Prof. Baikie’s record as Vice-Chancellor of three universities—the University of Benin, the University of Lesotho and Nasarawa State University—remains unmatched, noting that his legacy would continue to shape the nation’s educational system.
“We are here to celebrate a life richly lived and generously given in service to Nigeria and Africa. His legacy of excellence, humility and integrity must inspire our youths,” Danjuma said.
Also speaking, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, called on Northern leaders and the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) to immortalise Baikie through a special scholarship scheme dedicated to training teachers.
According to Yayale, Prof. Baikie was a pillar of Nigeria’s education sector, spending over 60 years shaping academic development, particularly at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
“Professor Baikie was a professional teacher who produced professional teachers. His impact on education in Northern Nigeria is immeasurable,” he said.
Prof. Jerry Gana, in his tribute, described the late scholar as a builder of men of character and distinction, whose tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin helped entrench academic excellence and institutional growth.
He noted that Baikie’s contributions extended beyond Nigeria, adding that his leadership and ideas helped strengthen universities across Africa.
Other dignitaries at the event included former Senate President David Mark, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II (who joined virtually), and several political, traditional and academic leaders, all of whom paid glowing tributes to the late educationist’s life of service, faith and commitment to national development.
