Professor Jibril Muhammad Aminu was born on 25 August 1939 in Song, Adamawa State, Nigeria. He began his early education at local Qur’anic schools and later attended the University of Ibadan, earning a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 1965. Aminu pursued further studies in the United Kingdom, completing a PhD in Medicine at the Royal Postgraduate Medical School, London, in 1972. He became one of Nigeria’s first indigenous professors of cardiology, marking a key milestone in the country’s medical history.
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Academic and Professional Career
After completing his studies, Aminu returned to Nigeria and served as a senior lecturer and consultant physician at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. In 1974, he was appointed Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), a position he held until 1979. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in standardising curricula and strengthening research across Nigerian universities.
In 1980, he became Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, serving until 1985. Under his leadership, the university expanded academic programmes and infrastructure, establishing itself as a prominent institution in northeastern Nigeria. Aminu also served as a visiting professor at Howard University College of Medicine (1979–1980).
Ministerial Appointments
Aminu served as Federal Minister of Education during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida (1985–1987). While often associated with education reform, historical records indicate that he contributed to policy discussions, teacher training programmes, and university expansion, though the direct creation of the 6-3-3-4 system is generally attributed to the federal Ministry of Education as a broader policy initiative.
He later served as Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (1989–1992), where he oversaw aspects of national energy policy. He represented Nigeria at OPEC meetings and was President of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization in 1991, as well as presiding over the OPEC Conference (1991–1992).
Diplomatic and Political Career
Following Nigeria’s return to democracy, Aminu was appointed Ambassador to the United States (1999–2003), strengthening bilateral ties in education, trade, and security. Subsequently, he entered partisan politics and was elected Senator representing Adamawa Central under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), serving two terms (2003–2011). In the Senate, he contributed to debates on education, health, and energy policy, earning a reputation for intellect and measured leadership.
Legacy and Death
Professor Jibril Aminu’s life exemplified scholarship, public service, and commitment to national development. His contributions to medical education, higher education policy, and governance left a lasting impact on Nigeria. He passed away on 5 June 2025 at the age of 85.
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Author’s Note
This account highlights Aminu’s multifaceted career, illustrating how dedication to education, healthcare, diplomacy, and legislative service can shape national development. His legacy provides a model for future generations of Nigerian leaders.
References
National Universities Commission (NUC). “Late Professor Jibril Aminu (1939–2025).”
Premium Times. “Professor Jibril Aminu (1939–2025).”
Vanguard Nigeria. “Profile: Professor Jibril Aminu, Educationist and Statesman.”
