Samuel Ajayi Crowther

First African Anglican bishop and pioneer of Yoruba language education

Trailblazing Career

Born in 1809 in present-day Nigeria, Crowther survived the transatlantic slave trade as a child. After being rescued by missionaries, he became the first African ordained as an Anglican bishop in 1864. His work included translating the Bible into Yoruba, creating the first written form of the language.

Educational Legacy

He established schools throughout West Africa, emphasizing bilingual education in Yoruba and English. His 1852 publication 《Yoruba Grammar》 became the foundation for modern Yoruba linguistics. He also founded Sierra Leone's Fourah Bay College, Africa's first university-level institution.

Modern Recognition

Today, the University of Ilorin awards the 'Samuel Ajayi Crowther Medal' for academic excellence. His linguistic work is still referenced in modern Yoruba literature. The Anglican Church commemorates him annually on September 30th. Read more at Wikipedia.