Nigerian Literary Icon, Mabel Segun, Passes Away At 95

Renowned Nigerian writer, broadcaster, and sportswoman, Mrs. Mabel Segun, has passed away.

She died in the early hours of Thursday, March 6, 2025, after a brief illness. She was 95 years old.

Her passing comes just two weeks after she was celebrated on her 95th birthday, which took place on Wednesday, February 18, 2025. Segun, a pioneer in children’s literature, gained prominence with her autobiographical classic, ‘My Father’s Daughter’.

Her family released a statement announcing her death: “It is with gratitude to God for a life well spent in the pursuit of excellence in Literature, Broadcasting, and Sports that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mabel Dorothy Okanima Segun (née Aig-Imoukhuede) in the early hours of the 6th of March 2025. She was 95 years old. Funeral arrangements will be published in due course.”

Mabel Segun was a woman of extraordinary talent, excelling in multiple fields. She was not only a distinguished writer but also a successful broadcaster, a brilliant academic, and a first-class athlete. She shattered barriers in every aspect of her life, earning a reputation as a fearless competitor. Late Chief Bola Ige once described her as the “Matriarch of Children’s Literature”. Segun was also a national table tennis champion, proving her dominance in sports alongside her literary achievements.

She did not just break barriers—she inspired others to do the same. Through her courage and determination, she opened doors for women, giving them the confidence to pursue their dreams.

On February 18, 2025, a seminar was held at J.K. Randle Centre in Onikan, Lagos, to celebrate her life. Many distinguished figures attended, including Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, Professor Niyi Osundare, Dr. Bunmi Oyinsan, Professor Akachi Ezeigbo, Mrs. Mobolaji Adenubi, Dr. Wale Okediran, Professor Olu Obafemi, and Dr. Kayode Aderinokun.

The event, themed “The Multifaceted Artistry of Mrs. Mabel Segun,” was anchored by Dr. Lookman Sanusi and Sola Alamutu. Mr. Jahman Anikulapo moderated the seminar, while poet and journalist Akeem Lasisi entertained the audience with a special poetic performance titled “This is Not a Tribute to Her Wondrous Life.”

Segun’s daughter, Omowunmi Segun, an award-winning writer herself, opened the event with a speech introducing a photo exhibition showcasing her mother’s extraordinary journey. She spoke passionately about her mother’s impact: “We are telling her story to inspire younger generations. She defied all the norms of her time. She became a champion in sports and excelled in academics. She proved that you can do both—and do them well.”

Dr. Bunmi Oyinsan, speaking via a visual presentation, described Segun as a pioneer who broke boundaries in literature, sports, and broadcasting. “This is not just a birthday celebration. It is a tribute to a living legend whose impact has shaped generations,” she said. “She did not just participate in sports—she dominated. She shattered expectations.”

Dr. Oyinsan also shared how reading ‘My Father’s Daughter’ inspired her to become a writer. “That book was the first one I read that was written by a Nigerian woman. It gave me permission to dream,” she recalled. She further highlighted Segun’s contributions to the Association of Nigerian Authors, where she served as a trustee and helped shape the careers of many writers.

During his tribute, Professor Niyi Osundare emphasized Segun’s resilience. “She was the only female among men in the literary world, yet she held her ground with an independent spirit that was rare,” he said. “She was bold, tenacious, and brilliant—but never arrogant.”

Dr. Wale Okediran, who had known Segun for over 40 years, recalled her active participation in the Association of Nigerian Authors. He credited her mentorship at a children’s writing workshop in Kaduna for inspiring his own foray into children’s literature.

Professor Olu Obafemi, in a speech titled “Garlands for Our Literary Matriarch, Mrs. Mabel Segun,” described her as a “pacesetter, a model, and an inspiration”. He acknowledged her crucial role in nurturing Nigerian literature and supporting the Association of Nigerian Authors.

Omowunmi Segun addressed the many perceptions people had of her mother. Some saw her as tough, even quarrelsome, while others recognized her as kind and generous with her time. She humorously recalled an event where someone called her mother “cantankerous”—a word that amused rather than offended Segun.

Omowunmi credited her mother’s strong personality to her grandfather, who was a serious and disciplined man. “My mother never suffered fools gladly. At 95, there was no room for fools in her life,” she said. She described how her mother’s strict and determined nature was a reflection of her father’s influence, even though he passed away when she was only eight.

In honor of Segun’s contributions, Dr. Oyinsan announced the establishment of The Mabel Segun Foundation, dedicated to promoting literature, education, and culture. “This foundation will nurture young writers and uphold the values Mrs. Segun spent her life pioneering,” she said.

Professor Wole Soyinka honored Segun as a pioneer who consistently broke barriers. Using soccer as an analogy, he described her as a player who was always ahead of her team. “While some are still looking for a ladder to climb over the wall, she had already jumped over, retrieved the ball, and returned to the game,” he remarked.

Soyinka also highlighted her achievements in sports, particularly in table tennis. “She was a champion. She defeated male players with ease, proving her independent spirit and remarkable talent,” he said.

The event concluded with the launch of the Mabel Segun Foundation and a vote of thanks from Omowunmi. Attendees left with a deep sense of admiration for Segun’s remarkable life. Her legacy as a trailblazer, mentor, and inspiration will continue to shape generations to come.

Indeed, she was not just a pioneer—she gave women the wings to fly.
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