Renowned communication scholar Prof. Idowu Akanbi Sobowale has passed away at the age of 85. According to a family member, Dr. Akinniyi I. Sowunmi, Sobowale died on October 8, 2026. The veteran scholar was a foundational figure in Nigeria's media and communication community, with a legacy that spans academic and professional excellence. Tributes have been pouring in from colleagues, former students, and distinguished personalities in the media and education sectors.
Prof. Rotimi Olatunji, National President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria (ACSPN), described Sobowale as the "foundational bedrock" upon which modern Nigerian media education, precision journalism, and public communication management were built. Olatunji noted that Sobowale left a lasting legacy of academic and professional excellence, bridging the gap between academia and professional practice with unmatched distinction.
Prof. Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, former Head of the Department of Mass Communication at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), paid tribute to Sobowale, describing him as a beacon of intellectual discipline, integrity, and warmth. Ogwezzy-Ndisika, who followed in Sobowale's footsteps at UNILAG, said she benefited immensely from his encouragement and commitment to nurturing generations of scholars and media practitioners.
Prof. Ralph Akinfeleye, African representative at the World Journalism Education Congress (WJEC), expressed shock and sadness over Sobowale's passing, describing it as a "big calamity." Akinfeleye noted that Sobowale's yearly conference at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, would be a lasting legacy. The conference had become a significant event in the media and communication community.
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, also paid tribute to Sobowale, describing him as an accomplished professional, a wise counsellor, and a valued friend. Mohammed recalled the cordial relationship he shared with Sobowale, highlighting his contributions to public service and education. Mohammed's condolence message was delivered in Lagos on October 8, 2026.
Sobowale's contributions to Nigeria's media and communication community are still being celebrated by his colleagues and former students. His legacy as a scholar and educator continues to inspire new generations of media practitioners and academics. The academic and professional community in Nigeria is mourning the loss of a titan in the field of communication.
Arrangements for Sobowale's funeral have not been announced yet, according to the family. The outpouring of tributes and condolences is a testament to the impact Sobowale had on the lives of many in Nigeria's media and education sectors. His memory will continue to be celebrated through his contributions to the field of communication.
Key points
- Prof. Idowu Sobowale, a renowned communication scholar, has died at the age of 85.
- Colleagues and former students have paid tribute to Sobowale's legacy as a scholar and educator.
- Sobowale's contributions to Nigeria's media and communication community continue to inspire new generations of media practitioners and academics.
