President Muhammadu Buhari has sent condolences to family, friends and associates of Prof. Akin Mabogunje, who passed on at 90.
Buhari declared that Mabogunje’s “departure will be greatly felt by the nation, especially the academia”.
The president’s condolence message is contained in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, on Thursday in Abuja.
He commiserated with Mabogunje’s network of professional associates and experts, at home and abroad, who have shared in his vision of nation building, with cerebral works in urbanisation, human and regional development, geographic perspectives and shelter provision.
Buhari noted the depth, reach and extensive research of the first African President of the International Geographical Union.
Mabogunje was the first African to be elected as a Foreign Associate of the United States National Academy of Sciences in 1999, and in 2017, was elected a Foreign Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and received the Vautrin Lud Prize.
According to the president, Mabogunje’s contribution to education in Nigeria, and in many parts of the world, remains indelible, especially the leadership positions he held, which include Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Ogun State University.
He was also Chairman of Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy; Member, Board of Trustees, Nigerian National Merit Award Endowment Fund; and later Chairman of the Fund.
Buhari prayed that the almighty God would grant the renowned geographer a peaceful rest and comfort his family.
