The Measure of Emeritus Professor Akin Mabogunje
Isaac Megbolugbe
August 4, 2024
As I reflect on the past two weeks of preparation for the second anniversary of Emeritus Professor Akin Mabogunje’s passing, I took a moment to contemplate the measure of the man. I found it challenging to fully grasp, as his true measure is a complex tapestry of remarkable dimensions.
Woven from threads of intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and visionary leadership, his legacy is a testament to his polymathic versatility. With expertise spanning multiple disciplines and fields, he has built a lasting impact, much like a master architect constructs a majestic whole from individual components.
His contributions to geography, urban planning, and development studies showcase his boundless energy and innovative spirit. By traversing the realms of theory and practice, he has left an indelible mark on the academic landscape, inspiring generations of scholars, researchers, and leaders.
As we attempt to grasp the measure of this remarkable individual, we navigate a vast terrain of achievements, from pioneering work on urbanization and development to mentorship of countless students and scholars. Ultimately, the true measure of Emeritus Professor Akin Mabogunje lies in the cumulative effect of his work, which has reshaped our understanding of the world and our place within it.
