ABU loses first female Prof of Broadcast Journalism in Nigeria, Sandra Ladi Adamu

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has announced the passing of Professor Sandra Ladi Adamu from the Department of Mass Communication.

A trailblazer in the media and academic world, Professor Adamu recognized as Nigeria’s first female Professor of Broadcast Journalism passed away this morning at the National Hospital, Abuja, following a long illness.

Born on July 17, 1958, in Yaba, Lagos, Professor Ladi Adamu hailed from a family of service and distinction. Her father, Sgt. Major Adamu Pankshin, a respected figure in the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers, made history as the first Nigerian Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) in the Corps before losing his life in active service when she was still a child.

She began her early education at Children’s School, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna, and later attended Queen Amina College, Kakuri, Kaduna. 

Her academic pursuit took her abroad, where she earned a B.A. in Mass Communication (Radio and Television) from Columbia College, Los Angeles, California, after transferring credits from City University, London.

Professor Adamu obtained her M.A. in Communication Arts (Film) from Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, and further enhanced her academic portfolio with a Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies from the Mount Carmel Golda Meir Institute, Haifa, Israel. 

Her passion for research and teaching culminated in a Ph.D. that solidified her place among Nigeria’s foremost communication scholars.

Her professional journey was equally impressive. She began as a Public Relations Officer at the Nigerian Consulate in Atlanta, Georgia, USA (1982–1984), then served as News Editor with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at NTA Jos (1984–1985), and later worked with NTA Jos from 1985 to 1987.

In 1999, Professor Adamu joined Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, as a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication. 

Through years of dedication, scholarship, and mentorship, she rose to become a Professor of Broadcasting the first in Northern Nigeria.

Her passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and groundbreaking contributions to broadcast journalism and communication education in Nigeria.