Ladipo Ayodeji Banjo, CON, boasts an illustrious career as a Nigerian Emeritus professor of English language and educational administrator. Renowned for his leadership, he served as the Vice-Chancellor of the prestigious University of Ibadan and later as the Pro-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University.
Banjo’s academic journey began at Igbobi College in Lagos State, Nigeria, where he excelled between 1947 and 1952. He furthered his studies with a Master of Art (M.A) degree in linguistics at the University of California, Los Angeles, United States, winning the esteemed American State Department scholarship award in 1966. Continuing his academic pursuits, he earned a Doctorate degree (PhD) from the University of Ibadan in 1969.
Entering academia, Banjo joined the faculty of the University of Ibadan’s Department of English language in 1966. His dedication and expertise led to his promotion as an associate professor in 1973 and a full professor in 1975. In 1981, he ascended to the role of Vice-Chancellor at the University of Ibadan, a position he held until 1991, during which he chaired the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities.
Banjo’s influence extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, as evidenced by his roles as a visiting professor at the University of West Indies at Cave Hill and a visiting fellow at the University of Cambridge, England, from 1993 to 1994. His commitment to higher education administration led to appointments as the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt (2000-2004) and later the University of Ilorin (2005-2007).
