DG NILDS, Prof Sulaiman, Mourns Passing of Prof Sylvester Shikyil

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar O. Sulaiman, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Sylvester S. Shikyil, SAN.

He described him as an exceptional academic who lived a life of impactful scholarship and mentorship.

He stated this in a condolence message issued on Monday, by his Media Adviser, Mohammad Abdulkadri.

Prof. Sulaiman described the late Prof. Shikyil as an accomplished scholar whose illustrious career was defined by his commitment to advancing jurisprudence, shaping legal education, and supporting humanity through excellence in teaching, research, and leadership.

He noted that the Senior Advocate of Nigeria left an indelible mark in the development of the then Policy and Advocacy Research Project (PARP), from which the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies eventually emerged.

“The late legal luminary, respected researcher, and fine gentleman will be greatly missed for his towering contributions to nation-building and the growth of institutions of higher learning in Nigeria and the African sub-region,” Prof. Sulaiman stated.

Prof. Sulaiman prayed the Lord Jesus Christ to grant eternal rest to the esteemed scholar—who served with distinction at the Faculty of Law, University of Jos—Prof.

Sulaiman urged the bereaved family, colleagues, and loved ones to find comfort in the countless lives he shaped through his dedication and mentorship.

He added that Prof. Shikyil’s profound achievements, passion for justice, and enduring legacies in the legal profession will continue to inspire generations to come.

“His life’s journey reflected integrity, generosity, honesty, and humility—qualities that endeared him to peers and established him as a distinguished role model,” the DG said.