Tiv scholars and academics
Formal education reached most of Tivland in the twentieth century through mission and government schools. Within a few generations it produced teachers, professors and researchers working across Nigeria and abroad. Tiv scholarship also has older roots: Akiga Sai's account of Tiv life and history, published in English in 1939, is still one of the most important written sources on the Tiv, and one of the first by a Tiv author.
Who is profiled here
This category currently profiles James T. Gire, a psychologist who is Professor and Head of Psychology at the Virginia Military Institute in the United States. Many other Tiv academics appear in other categories, because they are best known for later public roles. James Ayatse, the current Tor Tiv, is a professor of biochemistry and a former university vice chancellor. Daniel Saror, a veterinary surgeon, was Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University before entering the Senate. Alfred Akawe Torkula was an academic before he became Tor Tiv.
What a profile covers
A scholar's profile records their field and the institutions where they studied and taught, and their main publications and positions. It also notes any contribution to the study of the Tiv language, history or culture. Where a scholar trained others who went on to notable careers, or founded a department or institution, the profile records that as well, because teaching is often a scholar's longest-lasting legacy.
Help grow this category
Tiv scholars have worked in linguistics, history, medicine, agriculture, law, theology and the sciences. Some of the most valuable work on the Tiv language and culture is by Tiv researchers whose names are not widely known outside their fields. If you can suggest a scholar, a pioneering teacher or a researcher whose work deserves a profile, please send their details and publications through the contribution form.