Nigeria’s first professor of mathematics was a Yoruba man. Professor Adegoke Olubummo, born in Orin-Ekiti, Ekiti State, earned his PhD in mathematics in 1955 from King’s College, University of Durham. He began lecturing at the University College Ibadan in 1955 and was promoted to full professor in 1964, making him the first Nigerian to attain that rank in mathematics.
Here are 10 important facts you should know about this pioneering scholar:
1. He was born in Orin-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Professor Adegoke Olubummo hailed from Orin-Ekiti, a town in Ekiti State known for its deep-rooted respect for education and scholarly achievement. His Yoruba heritage played a significant role in shaping his values and academic journey.
2. He made history as Nigeria’s first mathematics professor
In 1964, he became the first Nigerian to be appointed a full professor in mathematics, breaking racial and colonial-era academic ceilings in Nigeria’s higher education system.
3. He earned his PhD from the UK in 1955
He obtained a Doctorate in Mathematics from King’s College, University of Durham (now Newcastle University) in 1955, a rare feat for a Nigerian at the time.
4. He joined University College Ibadan as a lecturer the same year
After earning his doctorate, he returned home and started teaching mathematics at University College Ibadan in 1955, laying the foundation for future mathematicians in Nigeria.
5. He was part of Nigeria’s post-independence academic elite
His academic career blossomed during the transition from colonial rule to independence. He was a member of the first generation of Nigerian scholars who helped Africanize the university curriculum and research agenda.
6. He contributed significantly to mathematical research and education
Professor Olubummo was a scholar of pure mathematics, and his work influenced how mathematics was taught and researched across West Africa. He also contributed to academic journals and educational policy.
7. He mentored future generations of Nigerian mathematicians
Many of his students went on to become professors and leaders in their own right. His mentorship created a ripple effect across Nigerian universities and scientific institutions.
8. He was a symbol of academic excellence and discipline
Known for his integrity, scholarly rigor, and humility, Olubummo’s legacy is often cited as a model for both teachers and students in Nigeria’s academic community.
9. He played a key role in developing mathematics departments in Nigeria
His influence extended beyond the University of Ibadan. He helped shape mathematics departments in several Nigerian universities, fostering collaboration, curriculum design, and academic leadership.
10. His legacy lives on in Nigeria’s educational and academic landscape
Though he passed away in 1992, Professor Adegoke Olubummo’s name remains synonymous with mathematical excellence in Nigeria. His pioneering role continues to inspire young African scholars in STEM fields.
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.
