The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has been thrown into mourning following the passing of Prof. (Pastor) Elizabeth Abidemi Balogun, wife of the University’s 4th Substantive Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oluwafemi Olaiya Balogun. She reportedly passed away yesterday, June 8, 2026, at the age of 71.
Late Prof. Elizabeth Abidemi Balogun was a distinguished academic, accomplished researcher, and retired Professor of Biochemistry from the Department of Biochemistry, University of Ilorin. Throughout her illustrious career, she made significant contributions to teaching, research, and academic administration, earning the respect of colleagues and students alike.
A seasoned scholar, Prof. Abidemi Balogun also served at FUNAAB’s Department of Biochemistry, where she contributed immensely to the advancement of biochemical sciences. Her research expertise was in Biochemical Toxicology and Phytomedicine, with particular focus on antimalarial drug development. Her scholarly works and mentorship impacted numerous students and researchers within and beyond Nigeria.
During her academic career, she held several leadership positions, including Head of the Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, and Head of the Department of Biochemistry. She was a Fellow of the Nigerian Society for Experimental Biology and the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, reflecting her outstanding contributions to the scientific community.
In a condolence message, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, expressed profound sadness over the demise of the renowned academic. He described the late Prof. Elizabeth Abidemi Balogun as an accomplished scholar, devoted Christian, loving mother, and a woman whose life was marked by excellence, humility, and service to humanity.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, her contributions to the growth of higher education, scientific research, and the development of young scholars would remain indelible. He noted that the University Community shares in the grief of Prof. Oluwafemi Olaiya Balogun and the entire family during this difficult period.
Prof. Kehinde prayed that God would grant the bereaved family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant the departed eternal rest.
