By Matthew Denis
The National Secretariat of Barewa Old Boys Association (BOBA) has expressed shock over the passing of an illustrious former Board of Trustees , late Emeritus Professor Umaru Shehu .
In a statement by Chairman Board of Trustees (BOT),former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, he condoled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Federal Government of Nigeria, the World Health Organisation and Borno state governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, and the entire good people of Borno State for his demise.
In a statement released by
AVM Ibrahim Shafi on behalf of BOBA , former Head of states described late Umaru Shehu a colossus, global icon and a legend of community health medical practice,, a Professor of Emeritus and an accomplished pan Nigerian administrator,
The late Professor was admitted into the then Kaduna College in February 1944 and graduated in 1947. His foundational background in science from the college propelled him to further pursue his education among the pioneer medical students of northern origin at the University College Hospital Ibadan in 1948.
He further attended the Liverpool University in the UK, among other international medical institutions, which enabled him attain the zenith of international medical scholarship, with profound reputation as professor emeritus in community health.
According to the statement Throughout his career and life as a dedicated teacher, provost of medical schools, Vice or Pro Chancellor of several Nigerian universities , Chairman of Health Management Boards, visiting professor to international medical schools, a staff, consultant or representative of the World Health Organisation, the late Professor was an embodiment of peace, purity and probity, an ever shining and guiding light , a personification of humility, simplicity, morality, modesty and selflessness.
He was an exemplary leader whose deeply rooted values served as great inspiration that shaped the lives of an uncountable youths that he mentored, especially in the many public institutions he served or administered.