1. First Nigerian PhD in Mathematics
Chike Obi made history as the first Nigerian to earn a doctorate (PhD) in mathematics, completing his degree at the University of Cambridge.
2. Born in 1921
He was born on April 17, 1921, in Onitsha, present-day Anambra State, Nigeria.
3. Attended Prestigious Institutions
His early education included Government College, Umuahia, and Yaba Higher College, after which he proceeded to Cambridge University.
4. Pioneer in Differential Equations
His PhD research focused on periodic solutions of non-linear ordinary differential equations—a complex area in the field of dynamical systems.
5. Professor at University of Lagos
After returning to Nigeria, he became a professor of mathematics at the University of Lagos, where he helped build a solid mathematics department.
6. Political Activist and Nationalist
Chike Obi was actively involved in Nigeria’s fight for independence and was a member of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).
7. Served in the House of Representatives
He was elected to the Nigerian House of Representatives during the First Republic, using his platform to advocate for good governance and national reform.
8. Advocate for Scientific Development
Obi believed in the application of scientific knowledge to national development and frequently called for a technological revolution in Nigeria.
9. Critic of Political Mediocrity
He was an outspoken critic of corruption, colonial legacies, and inept leadership, consistently pushing for rational, educated leadership.
10. Author of Books and Articles
Chike Obi wrote extensively—both mathematical works and essays on political and social reform, aiming to enlighten the Nigerian public.
11. Promoter of Intellectual Pluralism
One of his famous quotes reflects his inclusive worldview:
> “The belief that there is only one truth and that oneself is in possession of it seems to me the deepest root of all that is evil in the world.”
12. Mentor to Future Scientists
Through his teaching and supervision, he mentored countless Nigerian mathematicians and scientists, many of whom became leading figures in academia.
13. Lifelong Public Thinker
Obi never retired from public discourse—he continued writing and speaking on issues of national interest well into his 80s.
14. Lived Through Colonial and Postcolonial Nigeria
His life spanned colonial rule, the independence era, and multiple republics, giving him a unique perspective on Nigeria’s growth and struggles.
15. Passed Away in 2008
Professor Chike Obi died in March 2008, aged 86, leaving behind a powerful legacy in mathematics, education, and nationalism.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
