The University of Ibadan mourns Professor Aituaje Pogoson, its first female Political Science professor, celebrated for her scholarship and inspiring leadership.
The University of Ibadan has announced the passing of Professor Aituaje Pogoson, its first female Professor of Political Science and one of Nigeria’s most respected academics.
Her death at the age of 65 marks the end of a remarkable era for the institution and the entire world of Nigerian academia.
The sad news was confirmed by the Department of Political Science in a statement signed by the current Head of Department, Professor Dhikru Adewale Yagboyaju, who expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the trailblazing scholar.
“With deep pain but total submission to the Almighty, we announce the passing to glory, in the early hours of Saturday, 25 October 2025, of our colleague and former Head of Department, Professor Aituaje I. Pogoson,” he wrote.
Yagboyaju described her as an inspiring teacher, an exceptional researcher, and a compassionate mentor whose influence extended far beyond the university. He added that her death represents an irreplaceable loss to the department, the University of Ibadan, and the broader academic world.
Professor Aituaje Pogoson broke barriers and made history as the first woman to head the Department of Political Science since its establishment as a full-fledged department in October 1963. Her leadership was marked by integrity, inclusiveness, and innovation, earning her admiration across the university.
Colleagues recall her tenure as one that fostered academic excellence and encouraged younger scholars to push the boundaries of research and critical inquiry. She was widely respected for mentoring female academics and creating opportunities for women in political science — a field long dominated by men.
In March 2024, she delivered the university’s 545th inaugural lecture titled “The World in Transition: Understanding Power in the International System.”
The lecture captured her intellectual depth, analyzing global political power structures while connecting them to Africa’s place in the international system.
A proud alumna of the University of Ibadan, Professor Aituaje Pogoson obtained all her degrees from the institution. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History (1981), followed by a Master’s in Political Science (1984) and a Doctorate in Political Science (1994).
Her research areas included gender and politics, governance, international relations, and public policy. Over the years, she published widely and presented papers at international conferences, contributing to Nigeria’s reputation as a center of intellectual excellence.
Her passion for teaching and research earned her respect among both students and colleagues, many of whom describe her as a scholar who combined academic brilliance with humility and discipline.
Beyond her university role, Professor Aituaje Pogoson played significant roles in Nigeria’s policy and governance sectors.
Between 2005 and 2007, she served as a Policy Analyst on Governance with the Independent Policy Group (IPG)—a UNDP and Soros Foundation–backed think tank that provided policy advice to the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
In that capacity, she worked alongside national experts to produce policy recommendations on governance, political reform, and institutional development.
Her role demonstrated the vital bridge between Nigerian academia and practical governance, reinforcing her belief that research must inform policy for national progress.
Students and colleagues alike remember Professor Aituaje Pogoson as a scholar who cared deeply about intellectual growth and moral integrity.
She encouraged her students to question, explore, and think critically. Her classroom was a space for debate, reflection, and learning — a hallmark of true academic mentorship.
As Head of Department, she revitalized academic programs, strengthened research collaborations, and promoted interdisciplinary studies.
She also championed the inclusion of African perspectives in global political discourse, believing that Africa’s voice deserved prominence in the international system.
Her contributions went beyond academia; she was also active in gender advocacy and leadership training initiatives, helping women pursue excellence in education and governance.
Professor Aituaje Pogoson was married to Professor Ohioma Ifounu Pogoson, a respected scholar in the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan.
Their union was admired as one of intellectual partnership and mutual respect. Together, they raised three children who share their parents’ love for education and culture.
Her passing has left the academic community in deep grief. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, students, and alumni who remember her as a gentle but firm leader, a brilliant thinker, and a woman of unshakable principles.
Many described her as a symbol of what it means to live for knowledge and purpose — a scholar who elevated the University of Ibadan’s global standing through her teaching, writing, and leadership.
Though her earthly journey has ended, the impact of Professor Aituaje Pogoson will continue to resonate within Nigeria’s academic and intellectual circles.
Her groundbreaking role as the first female Professor of Political Science at the University of Ibadan will forever serve as an inspiration to young women aspiring to leadership in education and research.
Her work in governance and policy will remain relevant for generations to come, as will her teachings on international systems and political power. Her legacy reminds all scholars that true greatness lies not only in knowledge but also in how it is used to serve humanity.
As the University of Ibadan community mourns, they also celebrate a life defined by scholarship, courage, and commitment to excellence.
Professor Aituaje Pogoson leaves behind a legacy of brilliance, compassion, and purpose — one that will inspire future generations to continue the work she began.
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