Mabel Segun, the beloved Nigerian poet, writer, and champion for children’s literature, passed away at 95. Her family announced the news on Thursday, expressing deep gratitude for her remarkable life and achievements in literature, broadcasting, and sports.
A statement released by her family shared their appreciation for the legacy Mabel leaves behind, describing her as a versatile and dedicated media personality who relentlessly pursued excellence throughout her career. Funeral arrangements, they stated, would be made public soon.
Mabel Segun is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, including her son Gbenga, daughter Omowunmi, and granddaughter Rolari. The family also acknowledged the loss of her late son, Femi Segun.
Born in Ondo City on February 13, 1930, Mabel Segun was a literary force whose career spanned decades. She completed her secondary education at CMS Girls’ School in Lagos and went on to study at the University of Ibadan, where she earned a degree in English, Latin, and History in 1953. Her passion for education led her to teach these subjects in Nigerian schools, and she later served as head of the English and Social Studies department, as well as vice-principal, at the National Technical Teachers’ College in Yaba.
Mabel’s literary contributions were diverse, ranging from children’s books to adult fiction and poetry. Her debut book, My Father’s Daughter (1965), quickly became an essential text in schools worldwide and marked the beginning of her influential literary career. Her works have been translated into several languages, including German, Danish, Norwegian, and Greek, cementing her place as a key figure in global literature.
Her passion for nurturing young readers and promoting children’s literature was evident throughout her life. In 1978, she founded the Children’s Literature Association of Nigeria and later established the Children’s Documentation and Research Centre in Ibadan in 1990. Her commitment to the literary community extended internationally, as she became a fellow of the prestigious International Youth Library in Munich, Germany.
In 1981, She was a founding member of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), alongside legendary figures such as Chinua Achebe. Her work as a broadcaster earned her significant recognition as well, including the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation’s Artiste of the Year award in 1977.
Throughout her illustrious career, Mabel Segun was honored with numerous accolades for her contributions to literature, education, and culture. In 2009, she was awarded the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) for her lifetime achievements. She also received the LNG Nigeria Prize for Literature in 2007 and was featured in the anthology Daughters of Africa. In 2015, the Society of Young Nigerian Writers established the Mabel Segun Literary Society, dedicated to celebrating her work and inspiring future generations.
Beyond her literary and professional accomplishments, Mabel Segun was an exceptional athlete. A former table tennis champion, she made history as the first Nigerian woman to compete in the sport, earning the University’s Table Tennis Half Colour.
She won a gold medal in the doubles category in 1954 and continued to compete until the age of 58. She also earned a bronze medal in badminton at the Nigerian Regional Championship, showcasing her versatility and determination.
