Remembering Biodun Jeyifo: A Scholar and Activist

Biodun Jeyifo, fondly referred to as BJ, was a legendary figure in Nigerian academia and labor activism, particularly known for his role as the pioneer president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) from its inception in 1978. He was a revolutionary Marxist who believed in the necessity of social movements and the empowerment of the people.

Jeyifo's academic journey began at the University of Ibadan, where he excelled in English before pursuing graduate studies at New York University. He held various prestigious positions, including professorships at Cornell University and Harvard University, where he served as an emeritus professor.

Jeyifo was recognized for his multidimensional scholarship, receiving numerous awards, including an honorary doctorate from Obafemi Awolowo University in 2018. His commitment to education and labor rights was evident in his resistance to neoliberal educational policies and his mentorship of future leaders in academia.