UNILAG Mourns Former Professor Idowu Sobowale, Celebrates Legacy
Idowu Sobowale, a distinguished scholar and former head of UNILAG’s Department of Mass Communication, died on October 8, 2026, at age 85.
In Brief
- •Idowu Sobowale, a distinguished scholar and former head of UNILAG’s Department of Mass Communication, died on October 8, 2026, at age 85.
- •The University of Lagos’ Faculty of Communication and Media Studies issued a statement honoring Sobowale’s pioneering work in scientific public opinion polling and his mentorship of students and colleagues.
- •Sobowale’s collaboration with The Punch newspaper helped establish systematic public opinion studies in Nigerian journalism, advancing evidence‑based reporting.
Why It Matters
Idowu Sobowale’s contributions to communication education and journalism have shaped the professional landscape in Nigeria, fostering a culture of research‑driven reporting. His legacy as a mentor and pioneer of public opinion polling continues to influence current and future generations of scholars, journalists, and media practitioners, reinforcing the importance of evidence‑based journalism in democratic societies.
Key Details
- Date of Death
- 2026-10-08
- Age at Death
- 85
- Position at UNILAG
- Former Head of Department of Mass Communication
- Key Contribution
- Pioneered scientific public opinion polling in Nigerian journalism
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