A titan of academia: Tribute to Professor Charles Nnolim

By Eziwho Emenike Azunwo

IT is with profound sorrow that we bid farewell to a titan of academia, a luminary whose indelible mark on the intellectual landscape will forever be etched in our collective memory. Professor Charles Nnolim, a paragon of scholarly excellence, an erudite critic of international renown, and a mentor extraordinaire, has left an unfillable void in our midst. As Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Nnolim’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to academic rigour helped shape the intellectual trajectory of countless students, including those of us who had the privilege of being admitted into the Department of Theatre Arts in 2002.

Through his great works, such as Issues in African Literature and Approaches to the African Novel, Professor Nnolim demonstrated a profound understanding of the complexities of African literature, offering incisive critiques that continue to inform and inspire scholarly discourse. His scholarship was marked by a unique blend of intellectual rigour and pedagogical flair, as evident in his thought-provoking article, ‘The Artist and the Society: A Study of Achebe’s Anthills of the Savannah‘, which probed the intricate relationships between art, society, and politics.

I first became acquainted with Professor Nnolim’s demise through the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), an organization to which he was deeply committed and a platform that allowed him to share his passion for literature and scholarship with a wider audience. His influence extended beyond the academic community, shaping the literary landscape of Nigeria and beyond. My personal connection with Professor Nnolim deepened significantly through the kind facilitation of my academic mentor, Professor Julie Okoh, who arranged for me to visit him at his Aluu residence for an academic interview. This encounter not only afforded me the opportunity to engage with his profound intellect but also to benefit from his wisdom and insights. His erudite responses to my questions, infused with wit and humor, remain an unforgettable experience that has continued to shape my academic pursuits.

Furthermore, I am also indebted to the academic legacy of the late Dr. Stanley Obuh, whose drive in critical studies resonated deeply with me and played a pivotal role in shaping my academic pursuits. His influence, coupled with Professor Nnolim’s mentorship and scholarship, contributed significantly to my employment at the University of Port Harcourt, a testament to the enduring impact of these academic giants.

Prof. Charles Nnolim

Professor Nnolim’s scholarly contributions have enriched our understanding of the human experience, inspiring generations of scholars and researchers. As a teacher of teachers, he nurtured a culture of intellectual curiosity, fostering a community of scholars who will continue to draw sustenance from his legacy. His article, “The Philosophy of African Literature”, remains a wonderful work that continues to inform and shape scholarly discourse in the field.

After a long and distinguished career, Professor Nnolim passed away at the ripe age of late 80s, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. His passing is a monumental loss, felt deeply by his colleagues, students, and the academic community at large. Yet, even in death, his impact endures, a testament to the transformative power of his scholarship, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. As we mourn his departure, we take solace in the knowledge that his intellectual footprint will continue to inspire, provoke, and challenge us to strive for excellence. His legacy will remain an enduring beacon, illuminating the path for future generations of scholars, and reminding us of the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of others.

May his memory be a blessing to us all, and may his contributions to the world of academia continue to inspire and motivate us to reach greater heights!

* Dr. Azunwo, an Academic Rabbi, is the Ag. Head, Department of Theatre and Film Studies, Rivers State University