Idowu Sobowale, prominent Nigerian communication scholar, dies at 85

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

His death was announced by family member Akinniyi Sowunmi on Thursday, October 8, 2026. The Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria (ACSPN) described the passing as a major loss to the nation’s media and communication community.

Sobowale’s career spanned journalism and academia. After training at the Daily Times, he transitioned to academia, joining the University of Lagos as an assistant lecturer at the Institute of Mass Communication in 1975. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family at a later date.