By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday extended heartfelt condolences to the Grillo family, friends, associates and art lovers on the passing of Professor Yusuf Adebayo Cameron Grillo
Prof Grillo was the pioneer Head of the Department of Art and Printing, Yaba College of Technology.
He died last week after a brief illness at the Gbagada General Hospital in Lagos. He was 86 years.
A statement by Femi Adesina, President Buhari’s media aide, paid glowing tribute to the distinguished academic.
“From his stained glass paintings, to showcasing the rich Yoruba culture and heritage in his works, the President believes that the legendary artist and founding President of the Society of Nigeria Artists (SNA) was a master in promoting creativity and raising awareness on the beauty in indigenous traditions,” the statement read.
Buhari noted that one of the greatest legacies of Grillo was his devotion to educating and mentoring a younger generation, who, expectedly, through the power of the visual arts will continue to promote dialogue, understanding and appreciation of the uniqueness of the Nigerian society.
The President prayed for “the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for his many fans that will sorely miss him.”
