•Shettima leads mourners at funeral, says he’s irreplaceable
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of Professor Jibril Aminu, who passed away at the age of 85 after a prolonged illness.
A revered academic, medical professional and political leader, Professor Aminu’s death marks the end of an era for Nigeria’s intellectual and public service landscape.
In a statement he personally signed, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the people of Adamawa State, describing Aminu as a man who epitomised statesmanship and contributed immensely to nation-building. “He left remarkable imprints in the sands of time,” the President said, praising Aminu’s dual legacy as a decorated cardiologist and a committed public servant.
He recalled that his illustrious career spanned academia and politics. He was a professor of cardiology and held prestigious fellowships with the Nigerian Academy of Science, Royal College of Physicians (London), West African College of Physicians, and Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College. His academic roles included Senior Lecturer and Sub-Dean at the University of Ibadan Medical School, Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, visiting Professor at Howard University in Washington DC and vice chancellor of the University of Maiduguri.
Aminu served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States (1999–2003), Senator for Adamawa Central (2003–2011), and held ministerial portfolios as Minister of Education and Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources between 1989 and 1992. Notably, he was President of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (OPEC) and led the OPEC Conference from 1991 to 1992.
“I also extend my condolences to the government and the people of Adamawa State.
“Professor Aminu’s passing is a profound loss to the nation, but as we grieve, we must find solace in his legacy. He left remarkable imprints in the sands of time.
“May he find eternal rest in Aljana Firdaus. And may Allah forgive his sins,” he said.
Vice President Kashim Shettima led the Jana’iza (funeral prayers) at the National Mosque in Abuja, joined by prominent national figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and former governors and ministers.
He described the late professor as an “intellectual giant and the last of the titans,” whose contributions to education, medicine and governance are irreplaceable.
“It is a very sad loss. Prof Jubril Aminu was the last of the great titans, an iconic figure who enormously contributed to the development of the nation.
“He was variously the Executive Secretary of NUC, Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri and Minister of various ministries across the country and left his landmarks on the sands of time.
“He is irreplaceable. May Allah grant him Aljanatul Firdaus and give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. His loss is not just to the good people of Adamawa State but to the nation and Africa at large,” the Vice President said, praying for Allah’s mercy and comfort for the family.