The first professor in Nigeria was Professor Kenneth Dike (1917-1983). He was a renowned historian and academic who made significant contributions to the field of African history and culture.
Professor Dike was born in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, and received his early education in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He earned his Ph.D. in history from the University of Aberdeen in 1950 and returned to Nigeria to teach at the University College, Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan).
In 1956, Professor Dike became the first Nigerian to be appointed as a professor, serving as the Professor of History at the University of Ibadan. He was a pioneer in the field of African history and wrote several influential books, including “Trade and Politics in the Niger Delta” and “A Hundred Years of British Rule in Nigeria”.
History of the Ajanakus Family in Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria
Professor Dike’s achievements and contributions to education and academia have been recognized and celebrated in Nigeria and beyond. He remains a celebrated figure in Nigerian history and an inspiration to generations of scholars and academics.
