Professor Jonathan Ndagi, the founding Vice‑Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, died at the age of 96. The university’s Pro‑Chancellor and Governing Council Chairman, [Dr Mohammed K. Santuraki](https://futminna.edu.ng/governing- council), confirmed the news in a statement after receiving notification from Ndagi’s family early on Saturday.
Key facts
- Age at death: 96 years.
- Announcement made by: Dr Mohammed K. Santuraki, Pro‑Chancellor.
- Date of family notification: Saturday morning (exact date not specified).
- Last official visit: 8 November 2024, when Santuraki met Ndagi in his council capacity.
- Quote from Santuraki: “He was a distinguished scholar, visionary administrator and institution builder whose contributions laid the foundation for the development of FUT Minna.”
What was Professor Ndagi known for?
Professor Ndagi served as the pioneer Vice‑Chancellor when FUT Minna was established, steering the institution through its formative years. Colleagues credit him with shaping the university’s academic standards, expanding research programmes, and fostering a culture of excellence that continues to influence current faculty and students.
When did the Pro‑Chancellor last meet him?
Santuraki recalled a meeting on 8 November 2024, describing it as an opportunity to honour a man whose pioneering work still resonated across the campus. During that encounter, the Pro‑Chancellor highlighted Ndagi’s enduring impact on the university’s growth and on the many lives he touched through mentorship and scholarship.
Why is his legacy significant?
Beyond FUT Minna, Ndagi belonged to a generation of Nigerian academics whose vision and dedication helped build higher‑education institutions nationwide. His leadership is seen as a catalyst for the university’s evolution into a leading centre for science and technology education in the country.
The university community has entered a period of mourning, with tributes pouring in from former students, staff, and national education bodies, all acknowledging the profound imprint left by Professor Ndagi on Nigeria’s academic landscape.