Former Education minister, Jubril Aminu, passes away

Nigeria has lost one of its most revered intellectuals and statesmen, Professor Jibril Aminu, who passed away in Abuja at the age of 85 after a prolonged illness.

Aminu, a former Minister of Education and Minister of Petroleum, was a towering figure in both the academic and political landscapes of Nigeria. Known for his brilliance, integrity, and unwavering dedication to national development, he served the country in various influential roles throughout his lifetime.

A respected medical scholar and diplomat, Professor Aminu left a legacy of excellence marked by his contributions to education, energy policy, and international relations. His intellect and leadership inspired generations of Nigerians and earned him widespread admiration across political and academic circles.

A family source confirmed his passing on Thursday and announced that his funeral prayer (Janazah) will be held today at 2:00 p.m. at the Abuja National Mosque.

Subsequently, his remains would be flown to Yola and later to Song local government area, Adamawa State, for burial.

A trained cardiologist, Prof. Aminu earned his medical degree from the University of Ibadan in 1965, where he was celebrated as the best graduating medical student at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. He later obtained a PhD in Medicine from the Royal Postgraduate Medical School in London in 1972.

He served the country in various distinguished capacities — as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States (1999–2003), as Senator representing Adamawa Central (2003–2011), and earlier as Minister of Education and later as Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (1989–1992).

While serving as Petroleum Minister, he was President of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation in 1991 and President of the OPEC Conference between 1991 and 1992. He was also a delegate to the National Constitutional Conference between 1994 and 1995.