Adamu Baikie widely respected for detribalized outlook – ABU V-C

By Saidu Abubakar

The Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, has condoled with the bereaved family of Prof. Adamu Baikie who passed on recently.

Prof. Ahmed had on Monday, 22nd December, 2025, led a management team from the institution on a condolence visit to the residence of the deceased at GRA Zaria, the Public Affairs Directorate, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, (AHW), said in a statement.

Adamu Baikie, who holds the historic distinction of being the first Professor of Education in Northern Nigeria, was a Director of the Institute of Education, Ahmadu Bello University.

Presenting a condolence letter to Mohammed Adamu, the eldest son of the deceased, the Vice-Chancellor explained that Prof. Baikie was widely respected for his detribalized outlook and inclusive leadership style.

He described Prof. Baikie as a “proud alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University and a towering figure in education” whose career was defined by scholarship, service, and exemplary leadership.

The Vice-Chancellor further described Prof. Baikie’s educational career as a “landmark achievement” that laid a strong foundation for the advancement of education in Northern Nigeria.

Ahmed said Baikie served ABU, the nation, and international community in various high-level capacities, including as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, and the National University of Lesotho.

This is in addition to being the pioneer and two-term Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, he also said.

In all these roles, according to him, Prof. Baikie was known for diligence, fairness, vision, and an unwavering commitment to educational development.

He said beyond the distinguished positions he variously held Prof. Baikie firmly believed in unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

Ahmed said Prof. Baikie, who consistently promoted harmony across ethnic and religious lines, explained that Baikie’s life exemplified the ideals of unity and service that ABU holds dear.

The Vice-Chancellor, who prayed that God would grant the deceased eternal rest, said with Baikie’s passage ABU celebrated a life well lived and a legacy that would continue to inspire generations of students, scholars, and leaders.