Breaking: Renowned Scholar, Nigeria’s Ex-Minister Of Education, Petroleum, Jibrin Aminu, Dies 

Nigeria mourns the passing of one of its most distinguished sons, Professor Jibrin Aminu, who died after a protracted illness. A native of Adamawa State, Prof. Aminu was a trailblazing academic, medical expert, and statesman whose contributions to education, public service, and diplomacy spanned several decades.

Born in August 1939, Prof. Aminu graduated in Medicine from the University of Ibadan in 1965 and later earned a Ph.D. in Medicine from the prestigious Royal Post-Graduate Medical School. His medical and academic career began in earnest at the University of Ibadan, where he served as Consultant, Senior Lecturer, and Sub-Dean of Clinical Studies from 1973 to 1975.

He went on to become the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) from 1975 to 1979, and shortly after, a Visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University College of Medicine, Washington D.C. (1979–1980). In 1980, he was appointed Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, a role he held until 1985. During this time, he also served as Professor of Medicine at the same institution until 1995.

Prof. Aminu brought his vast expertise to the federal government, first serving as Minister of Education (1989–1990), and later as Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (1990–1992). He also held the prestigious post of President of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) during his time in the petroleum ministry.

In diplomacy, he served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States from 1999 to 2003. Upon his return, he was elected Senator representing Adamawa Central (2003–2007), where he contributed to national legislation and policy development.

On 2 January 2010, in recognition of his enduring service and national stature, Prof. Aminu was honored with the traditional title of “Bobaselu of The Source” by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade.

Prof. Jibrin Aminu leaves behind a legacy defined by intellectual excellence, principled leadership, and unwavering dedication to national service. His life was a bridge between medicine, academia, and public governance—a legacy that will inspire generations to come.