Professor Emeritus Biodun Jeyifo, one of Nigeria’s most distinguished literary scholars and critics, has died at the age of 80.
His passing was announced on Wednesday by the President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL), Professor Andrew Haruna.
“The President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, Professor Andrew Haruna, FNAL, regrets to announce the death of Professor Emeritus Biodun Jeyifo, FNAL, which occurred today, 11th of February, 2026,” the statement read.
A Towering Figure in African Literary Studies
Widely known as Professor BJ, Jeyifo built an illustrious academic career that spanned continents and decades. He began his teaching career at the then University of Ife — now Obafemi Awolowo University — where he emerged as a leading voice in literary scholarship before relocating abroad.
He later held dual academic appointments at Cornell University and Harvard University in the United States, cementing his global reputation as a foremost authority in African literature and drama.
Jeyifo was particularly renowned for his work in Marxist literary criticism and postcolonial studies, earning respect as one of Africa’s most influential intellectual voices.
Celebrated at 80
Just weeks before his passing, scholars and admirers from around the world gathered at the MUSON Centre in Lagos on January 5, 2026, to celebrate his 80th birthday in a grand international event honouring his enduring contributions to literature and critical thought.
His death marks the end of an era in Nigerian and African literary scholarship.
“May his gentle soul rest in peace, and may God comfort the family he left behind,” Professor Haruna said in his tribute.
Jeyifo leaves behind a rich intellectual legacy that shaped generations of scholars and expanded global understanding of African literature and critical theory.
