Professor Jibril Aminu, a distinguished cardiologist, academic and former Minister of Education and Petroleum, passed away in Abuja on Thursday, 5 June, 2025 at the age of 85 in the course of a prolonged illness.
His death has elicited widespread tributes from leaders and citizens, marking the end of an era for a towering figure in Nigeria’s intellectual and public service landscape.
Born in 1939 in Song, Adamawa State, Professor Aminu was celebrated for his academic excellence, graduating as the best medical student from the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, in 1965, and earning a PhD in Medicine from the Royal Postgraduate Medical School, London, in 1972.
A renowned cardiologist, he held fellowships from prestigious institutions, including the Nigerian Academy of Science and the Royal College of Physicians in London.
Aminu’s illustrious career spanned academia, diplomacy and politics. He served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri (1980–1985), Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission and as a visiting professor at Howard University.
As Minister of Education (1985–1989), he implemented significant reforms, and as Petroleum Minister, he left a lasting impact, notably as President of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization. He also represented Nigeria as Ambassador to the United States and served as a Senator.
President Bola Tinubu described Aminu as a “respected academic and political leader who brought erudition to statecraft.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima led mourners at his funeral prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja, while northern governors and former leaders, including General Ibrahim Babangida, hailed his legacy of excellence.
Professor Aminu is survived by two wives and nine children. His contributions to education, healthcare, and public service will remain a blueprint for leadership in Nigeria.
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