The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams has mourned the passing of Prof Siyan Oyeweso, describing him as a distinguished academic and revered figure in the Nigerian educational community.
Iba Adams said the death of late Prof Oyeweso was indeed a great loss to Nigeria’s academic community.
He noted that his dedication to scholarship, mentorship, and the advancement of knowledge left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing or working with him.
Adams observed that throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Oyeweso exemplified excellence, integrity, and a passion for education.
“He inspired countless students and colleagues with his passion for learning and his unwavering commitment to excellence. His work not only enriched his field but also elevated the standards of academic pursuit in Nigeria,” he said.
He added that his contributions to his field and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of scholars will be remembered with great admiration and respect.
“In particular, Prof. Oyeweso has been of immense support to us at the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF) and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), helping to deliver numerous thought-provoking lectures whenever he was called upon. An example of such was the beautiful lecture he delivered during OPC’s 30th anniversary.
“He was a distinguished scholar whose contributions to education and research have left an indelible mark on the nation’s academic landscape.
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“As the nation grieves, it is fitting to celebrate Professor Oyeweso’s life. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and students during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire all of us,” Iba Adams said.
The late Oyeweso started his academic career in November 1985 as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of History, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Lagos State.
At LASU, he was promoted to Lecturer Grade II in 1987, Lecturer Grade I in 1989, and Senior Lecturer in 1992. He rose through the ranks and was appointed an Associate Professor of History in 2001 and a full Professor in July 2004.
During his years of service at LASU, he served as the Head of the Department of History and International Studies and Dean, Faculty of Arts. He also served as a member of the International Board of Trustees of Lagos State University Centre for Democracy and Development Studies (CDDS) –a Ford Foundation initiative in 1999-2003.
In 2007, Oyeweso moved to the newly established Osun State University, Osogbo, where he was appointed and served as the pioneer Provost of the College of Humanities and Culture between August 2007 and 31 July 2011.
At Osun State University, he served in various administrative and academic capacities. For four years, Prof Oyeweso was a member of the pioneer Governing Council of Osun State University, ably led by the world-acclaimed doyen of higher education, Distinguished Prof. Peter Okebukola OFR (2008-2011). He also served as a member of the UNIOSUN Strategic Planning Committee (2010-2016).
Until his death, he was the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, a role he assumed on July 4, 2024.
