Veteran Communication Scholar Idowu Sobowale Dies at 85

Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, a renowned communication scholar, journalist and former Lagos State Commissioner for Education, has died at the age of 85.

Sobowale died on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026, according to a statement released by a member of his family, Akinniyi Sowunmi.

Sowunmi described his death as a major loss to Nigeria’s communication community, particularly the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria.

The late professor was regarded as one of the influential figures in Nigeria’s journalism, communication research and education administration.

Born in Ashipa near Abeokuta, Ogun State, Sobowale began his journalism career with the Daily Times, where he worked in several editorial capacities before moving into academia.

He obtained a Diploma and Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos and later proceeded to Syracuse University in the United States, where he earned a PhD in Scientific Journalism in 1978.

Sobowale was also instrumental in the development of journalism and communication education in Nigeria. He served as an assistant lecturer and later held leadership positions at the University of Lagos.

He subsequently joined Lagos State University, where he became Professor of Communication Studies and served as the pioneer Dean of the LASU School of Communication from 2004 to 2007.

His contributions extended beyond the classroom and newsroom. Sobowale was involved in public opinion research and was credited with pioneering opinion polling in Nigerian journalism.

He also played a role in public administration, serving as Special Adviser on Education to former Lagos State Governor Lateef Jakande before later serving as Commissioner for Education during Bola Tinubu’s administration as governor of the state.

His influence in communication education continued beyond LASU. Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, named its Faculty of Communication and Media Studies in his honour.

Over the years, colleagues, students and media professionals have recognised Sobowale for his scholarship, mentorship and contributions to journalism and communication studies in Nigeria.

The family said details of his funeral arrangements would be announced later.