I join other associates of Professor Jibril Aminu not only to mourn his passing but to celebrate the life of an extraordinary Nigerian—a man whose intellect, integrity, and influence shaped generations and transformed institutions. His recent passing in Abuja marks the end of a monumental chapter in our nation’s history.
Professor Aminu was more than a scholar; he was a national compass. As Minister of Education, he envisioned an equitable and progressive system that empowered minds and bridged social divides. Later, as Minister of Petroleum, he steered one of Nigeria’s most critical sectors with exceptional competence, transparency, and patriotic foresight. The reforms he implemented laid foundations that are still felt today.
Yet perhaps his greatest legacy lies in the quiet, determined way he mentored others. To thousands, he was a teacher. To many more, he was a father figure, a counselor, a voice of reason in turbulent times. He believed in excellence, discipline, and service above self—and he lived those values until the very end.
Professor Jibril Aminu was one of the closest friends of my late brother-in-law, Ajie Ukpabi Asika, and his wife, my eldest sister, Chief Mrs. Chinyere Asika. By extension, he became a cherished friend to our entire family. When he, as Minister of Education, sought to publish his visionary speeches on education in Nigeria, my sister introduced me to him.
At the time, Dilibe Onyeama and I were on the planning committee for the first Enugu International Book Fair and served on the executive committees of both the Publishers Association and the Association of Nigerian Authors. Dilibe, being a well-known author, was introduced to my sister and to Professor Aminu to collaborate on the project. Although Dilibe later withdrew from the project, I continued working on it. After editing the manuscript, I submitted it to Heinemann for publication. David Ogbodo, Professor Aminu’s dedicated and resourceful Special Assistant, provided all the necessary logistics. Despite my several trips to Heinemann in Ibadan and my best efforts, the book was unfortunately never published due to circumstances beyond my control. Nonetheless, Professor Aminu recognized my intellectual potential and encouraged me to pursue my doctorate at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
He later appointed me to the Governing Council of the Nigerian Students Loans Board, where I served as Chairman of the Establishment Committee and later as Vice Chairman of the Tenders Board. This marked my first exposure to federal-level public service and became a springboard for many of my future achievements.
As President of Klub Feminique—a circle of close, accomplished friends—I organized a fundraiser to establish a computer center. Professor Aminu’s financial support was remarkable. He not only contributed generously but also sent a high-profile representative to serve as Guest of Honour.
When he became Minister of Petroleum, he connected me with Chief Alex Nwokedi, then Public Relations Director at NNPC and also a close family friend. Through this connection, I was given the opportunity to produce and reproduce the journal Investment Opportunities in Nigeria’s Petroleum Sector. This engagement significantly boosted my career as a publisher.
When my husband faced challenges with his Owerri Modern Market project—challenges arising from efforts by detractors within the State Military Government to cancel his contract—Professor Aminu stood by us and supported the restoration of that contract. He was always there to help.
For me, the support, motivation, inspiration, and encouragement I received from Professor Aminu prepared me for much of what I have achieved in life. He was a mentor to whom I remain deeply indebted.
Nigeria has lost a giant. But his ideals live on—in the lives of those he mentored, in the institutions he strengthened, and in the future he so selflessly helped to build.
Farewell, Professor Aminu.
Your light was bright. Your legacy is eternal.
•Dr Kema Chikwe is a former Minister of Aviation.
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