Lagos:Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Prof. Idowu Sobowale.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, in a condolence message issued on Thursday, Mohammed described Sobowale as an accomplished professional, wise counsellor, dear friend, and valued colleague. He highlighted Sobowale’s unforgettable contributions to public service and education.
Mohammed recalled the uniquely cordial relationship he shared with Sobowale. He noted that Sobowale served as Special Adviser on Education to then Lagos Governor Bola Tinubu while Mohammed was Chief of Staff. This relationship continued even after they both left the cabinet.
Sobowale, a renowned journalist, communication scholar, and former Lagos Commissioner for Education, passed away on October 8 at the age of 85. He was a pioneer in opinion polling in Nigerian journalism and influenced generations of media professionals and scholars.
Mohammed stated that Sobowale’s experience, especially his time serving under the late former Governor, Lateef Jakande, was invaluable. Sobowale’s wisdom and deep understanding of education and public service were pivotal in his assignments.
The former minister expressed that Sobowale’s death was a significant loss to his family, friends, and the broader community of educationists, communication scholars, and public servants. He offered his condolences to Sobowale’s family, friends, and associates, praying for God to grant Sobowale eternal rest and to provide his family with the strength to bear the loss.