𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚'𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬, 𝐀𝐲𝐨 𝐁𝐚𝐦𝐠𝐛𝐨𝐬𝐞, 𝐃𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝟗𝟒

By Peter Dansu  Nigeria has lost one of its most celebrated scholars and foremost language experts, Professor Ayo Bamgbose, who passed away ...

By Peter Dansu 

Nigeria has lost one of its most celebrated scholars and foremost language experts, Professor Ayo Bamgbose, who passed away at the age of 94.

His death was announced in the early hours of Saturday, July 25, 2026, by the Centre for Yoruba Studies at the University of Ibadan. The centre also opened a condolence register in his honour to allow colleagues, students and admirers to pay their last respects.

Born on January 27, 1932, Professor Bamgbose was widely regarded as a towering figure in African linguistics and the first Professor of Linguistics in Nigeria. Throughout his distinguished academic career, he played a pivotal role in advancing the study, preservation and development of indigenous African languages, with particular emphasis on the Yoruba language.

Beyond his groundbreaking research, Bamgbose made lasting contributions to education, language policy and curriculum development in Nigeria and across Africa. His scholarly works earned him widespread recognition, numerous honours and leadership positions in several national and international professional bodies.

For decades, he remained a respected voice in linguistic scholarship, mentoring generations of academics and inspiring efforts to promote indigenous languages as vital tools for education, cultural identity and national development.

The announcement of his passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from academics, students, cultural organisations and admirers, who have described him as a rare intellectual giant whose legacy will continue to shape linguistic studies for generations.

Professor Ayo Bamgbose leaves behind an enduring legacy as a pioneer, educator and advocate for African languages, whose impact on scholarship and cultural preservation will not be forgotten.