- Safiu Kehinde
Publishers, academic scholars, and book enthusiasts are set to honour the late renowned Nigerian publisher, Joop BerkHout, who passed away at the age of 94.
BerkHout, who died last week Monday, worked with Evans Publishers before he left in 1978 to establish Spectrum Books.
The late publisher would establish the Safari Book Limited in 2008 which he was the Chairman till his passing.
In honour of the Dutch-Nigerian publisher, an evening of tribute is slated to hold today at Felicia Hall, Jogor Centre, off Liberty Rod in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The event is set to commence by 4pm and will end by 6pm.
During his lifetime BerkHout’s deep connection and contribution to Nigeria earned him a chieftaincy title, the Okunborode of Ile-Ife, Osun state.
His demise had attracted tributes from prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu.
NPO reported that the President, in his condolence message described BerkHout as a naturalized Nigerian, who made Ibadan, Oyo State, his home and dedicated his life to advancing Nigeria’s publishing industry.
He eulogised Berkhout for his love for Nigeria and considerable contributions to the publishing industry.
“Chief Berkhout lived a remarkable life in Nigeria. He was a doyen of publishing for over 50 years, shaping the industry and inspiring many Nigerian writers.
“He immersed himself in our culture and tradition such that he bagged a chieftaincy title as Okun Borode of Ile-Ife.
“Though he hailed from the Netherlands, his heart belonged wholly to Nigeria.” Tinubu said.
Also mourning the demise of the publisher was Nasir El-Rufai, who, in a post on his X handle, stated that Nigeria has lost a true friend.
El-Rufai disclosed that the late BerkHout was the publisher of his 2013 book, The Accidental Public Servant.