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The Institute for Agricultural Research ( IAR) and the Plant Science Faculty at ABU, Zaria, have announced the death of Prof. C. A. Echekwu, a renowned groundnut breeder with an impactful legacy that had reshaped legume research in Nigeria.
The announcement came in the news bulletin of the Institute's weekly with the following tributes: "A TRIBUTE TO A GIANT IN GROUNDNUT RESEARCH — PROF. C.A. ECHEKWU.
The contents read further " It is with heavy hearts that the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, mourns the passing of one of its most esteemed scholars and a titan in agricultural science, Professor C. A. Echekwu, a renowned groundnut breeder whose legacy shaped the course of legume research in Nigeria and beyond. He passed away after a period of illness, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of excellence, dedication, and transformative contributions to agricultural development.
Prof. Echekwu was a pillar in the IAR community and a trailblazer in groundnut improvement research. His work led to the development of high-yielding, drought-tolerant, and disease-resistant groundnut varieties that significantly boosted farmers’ productivity and income, particularly in the semi-arid regions of Nigeria. Through his deep understanding of plant breeding, unwavering commitment to scientific rigor, and mentorship of young scientists, he nurtured a generation of researchers who now carry his vision forward.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Prof. Echekwu was a man of integrity, humility, and purpose. His presence lit up our academic corridors, and his absence now leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire agricultural research community.
Also the Registrar, National Varietal Release Committee ( NVRC) and Director , National Centre Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), Dr. Anthony Okere has expressed a rude shock at his departure, saying that the whole of the crops, livestock/fisheries varieties committees would miss his quality contributions to improved varieties release and entire food security.
Okere said that " The man who works for Peanut is gone. The giant in the legume research world has gone to sleep . One of the best breeders of our time has gone back to his creator. IAR Samaru will miss you. The National Varietal Release Committee will miss your sparks of electricity in the house.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
My heartfelt condolence to the ABU community and also to Professor Sanusi Gaya of the Center for Dry land Agriculture Bayern University.
ReplyDeleteI had on so many occasions happens to be in the same group working committee with the late prof. I have to confess that he is down to earth and humble.
It is well.
ReplyDeleteProf. Echekwu's sense of duty and patriotism will be greatly missed by the NVRC. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.
ReplyDeleteRest in Peace papa
ReplyDeleteLife is transient thus as it travel it look ahead to the final destination. Only remember to prepare should incase it down on the next. It is his time to depart and see his maker. May God grant us wisdom as we trade along
ReplyDeleteMay his gentle soul rest in perfect peace....
ReplyDeleteIt was interesting being in his company. He was humble and very knowledgeable. He was always ready to also transfer knowledge. He will surely be missed. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
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