Ajayi Crowther University in Oyo is mourning the death of Professor Emeritus Ayo Bamgbose, the first professor of linguistics in Nigeria [1, 2].

Bamgbose's death marks the loss of a foundational figure in African academia. His work established the framework for how indigenous languages are studied and preserved across the continent, influencing generations of scholars and policymakers.

In a statement, Ajayi Crowther University said he was a "towering intellectual figure" [1]. The institution said that his academic leadership helped define the trajectory of linguistic research within the region [1].

The university said that Bamgbose was a scholar "whose contributions shaped linguistic studies in Nigeria and Africa" [1]. His career was defined by a commitment to the scientific study of language and the promotion of linguistic diversity, a pursuit that elevated the status of Nigerian languages in global academic circles.

As a Professor Emeritus, Bamgbose maintained a legacy of mentorship and research. The university's tribute said that his influence extended beyond the classroom, impacting the broader intellectual landscape of West Africa [1, 2].

“a towering intellectual figure”

The death of Professor Emeritus Ayo Bamgbose represents a transition in Nigerian academia. As the first person to hold a professorship in linguistics in the country, Bamgbose provided the academic legitimacy required to treat local languages as rigorous fields of scientific study rather than mere dialects. His legacy ensures that the infrastructure for linguistic preservation in Africa remains rooted in formal academic discipline.