By Diran Laolu

The University of Ibadan has announced the passing of foremost African linguist and founding President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL), Emeritus Professor Ayo Bamgbose, who died at the age of 94.

The announcement was made via the University of Ibadan’s Facebook page on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

“The death has been announced of a Foremost African Linguist, and Foundation President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL), Emeritus Professor Ayo Bamgbose, NNOM, FNAL, D.Litt. 2017. His death was announced earlier today at the age of 94,” the statement read.

Emeritus Professor Ayo Bamgbose was born in Odopotu, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on January 27, 1932. He received his early education at St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, before proceeding to University College, Ibadan, then in a special relationship with the University of London.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English in 1960 and later proceeded to the University of Edinburgh, where he earned a PhD in 1963 with a dissertation titled A Study of Structures and Classes in the Grammar of Modern Yoruba.

Following the completion of his doctoral studies, Bamgbose joined the University of Ibadan as a lecturer in 1963. He rose through the academic ranks, becoming a Senior Lecturer in 1966 and a Professor in 1968.

During his career at the University of Ibadan, he served in several leadership positions, including Warden, Hall Master, Head of the Department of Linguistics and African Languages, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the General Studies Programme, and Chairman of the Senate Publications Committee. Upon his retirement, the university conferred on him the title of Professor Emeritus.

Beyond Nigeria, Professor Bamgbose gained international recognition through his extensive publications, lectures, keynote addresses, visiting appointments, and service on editorial boards. 

Among his notable appointments were Visiting Professor at the University of Hamburg (1979–1980), Visiting Fellow at Clare Hall, University of Cambridge (1987–1988), George A. Miller Visiting Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (1993–1995), and Visiting Professor at the University of Leipzig (1997–1999).

Bio Credit: DAWN Commission