His death was confirmed by his son, Prince Olukitibi Oyawoye, on Monday evening. He was 96 years of age.

Born in Offa in Kwara state on August 12, 1927, Prince Oyawoye, the Aremo of Offa, served as a lecturer at the University of Ibadan between 1960 and 1977. He was appointed a professor in 1966 at the age of 39 and became the first Professor of Geology in Africa.

He also served as the Chairman of the West Africa Examinations Council.

Reacting to his death, the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in a condolence message signed by his spokesman, Rafiu Ajakaye, described Oyawoye’s death as a huge national loss.

The governor said the death of Africa’s first professor of geology was the end of a great era in academic accomplishments, dedication to community service, and statesmanship.