Former minister of state for education and leading governorship aspirant in Delta State, Olorogun Barrister Kenneth Gbagi, has expressed shock over the death of the first ever female university Vice Chancellor in Nigeria, Professor Grace Allele-Wiliams who died at the age of 89 years.
In a statement he personally signed on Saturday March 26th 2022, Gbagi condoled with the family of the first Nigeria female university VC, who was celebrated as a role model when she was appointed VC of University of Benin, Edo State.
“I received with shock the news of the passing of the first ever female university Vice Chancellor in Nigeria, Professor Grace Allele-Wiliams, who passed on in Lagos.
“She was known to be a very peaceful and empathic person, who sympathised with those that suffered misfortune, gave encouragement to those in despair and shared whatever she had with those in need within her community,” Gbagi said.
The former minister of education, noted that Alele-Williams was born 1932 in Warri but attended Queen’s College, Lagos and the University College, Ibadan (now University of Ibadan).
He stated that her love for education and knowledge drove her to obtain a Master’s degree in Mathematics while teaching at Queen’s School, Ede in Osun State in 1957 and a PhD degree in Mathematics education from the University of Chicago in 1963.
In the 70’s, her book, Modern Mathematics was adopted for primary school pupils in Lagos State.
“It is pertinent, therefore, that at this very traumatic period for your family, I also share in their pains.
“As mortals, it is difficult to come to terms with the loss of such a kind-hearted, deeply pious and beneficent matriarch, who in spite of her age, was still full of life and a veritable bastion of support for her children, the entire community, Nigeria, particularly the education sector.
“She may not have lived to the fullness of our desires for her life, yet she lived a fulfilled life of service to humanity through her numerous community engagements, nurtured her children to greatness and had a good relationship with God.
“On behalf of my family, I offer our sincere condolences at this most challenging time while praying that she finds eternal rest in heaven.
“Also I pray that God send forth His grace upon her children and extended family that she left behind. Be assured that we have you in our prayers and share in your grief at this most difficult time,” Gbagi said.
