President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mourns Prominent Educator and Medical Statesman

  EMERITUS PROFESSOR UMARU SHEHU, A PROMINENT EDUCATOR, IS MOURNED BY PRESIDENT TINUBU.  

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

 Emeritus Professor Umaru Shehu, CFR, a leading figure in Nigerian education and one of the first medical pioneers from Northern Nigeria, passed away on Monday, shocking and saddening President Bola Tinubu.   The nonagenarian statesman, who was born in Maiduguri, Borno State, in 1930, passed away at the age of 92.   

Emeritus Professor Shehu’s passing was characterized by President Tinubu as a serious blow to the nation, closing a glorious chapter of illustrious service to Nigeria, Nigerians, and humanity in general.   

Prof. Shehu Umar

Emeritus Professor Shehu was a giant, even among that illustrious generation of indigenous pioneers in our nation. His life story is replete with groundbreaking innovations in the fields of humanitarian aid, medical practice, and educational administration.   

“The renowned Professor of Medicine has always served Nigeria honorably and given all Nigerians a sense of pride with his immeasurable advancements and cutting-edge methods for managing global health and medical education. 

The President expressed gratitude for having him as a patriotic son and a deserving international representative in his fields of endeavor.   Emeritus Professor Shehu, who received his training at a number of prestigious institutions including the now-defunct University College-Ibadan, the University of Liverpool, and the University of London, spent a lifetime juggling roles in Nigeria’s medical and academic sectors in addition to making a number of noteworthy appearances abroad.   

The renowned scholar held various positions at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, University of Nigeria in Nsukka, and University of Maiduguri, including Deputy Vice Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, and Sole Administrator. He was a successful teacher and mentor to many medical professionals, both in Nigeria and the UK, and he held various positions with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Ethiopia and Nigeria.   

President Tinubu conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Borno State, the family of the late statesman, the Nigerian medical profession, and a great number of others who are mourning the tragic loss of this revered Nigerian figure, mentor, father, son, and committed professional.   Additionally, the President prayed for the academician and statesman’s soul to find peace.  

Principal Ajuri Ngelale.   

President’s Special Advisor.   

(public relations and media).   

February 2nd, 2023.