Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, a renowned Nigerian journalist, communication scholar and former Lagos State Commissioner for Education, has died at the age of 85.
Sobowale died on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026, according to a statement released by his family. A member of the family, Akinniyi Sowunmi, described his death as a major loss to Nigeria’s communication community, particularly the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN).
The family statement said, “Our father, Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, 85, joined the saints triumphant this morning, October 8, 2026.” Details of his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.
Sobowale was widely recognised for his contributions to journalism, communication education and public service. He began his journalism career with the Daily Times and went on to work in several newsroom positions, including reporter, correspondent, sub-editor, assistant editor, deputy editor and editor.
He later joined the University of Lagos as an academic and earned a PhD in Scientific Journalism from Syracuse University in the United States in 1978. He became a professor of communication studies and served as the pioneer dean of the Lagos State University School of Communication.
His career also extended into public administration. Sobowale served as Special Adviser on Education to former Lagos State Governor Lateef Jakande and later became Commissioner for Education during Bola Tinubu’s administration in Lagos State. He was also honoured with the national award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Sobowale’s death is significant to Nigeria’s media and academic communities because of his long-standing role in journalism training, communication scholarship and professional development. The biennial Idowu Sobowale International Conference was established in recognition of his contributions.
His passing marks the end of a career spanning journalism, academia and public service, leaving behind a legacy that influenced generations of Nigerian media professionals and communication scholars.
