Chief Mrs Leila Euphemia Apinke Fowler, a renowned Nigerian educator and lawyer, has passed away at the age of 91. Her death was confirmed by Bashorun J.K. Randle on Saturday. Born on March 23, 1933, in Lagos, Chief Fowler was a trailblazer in multiple fields, including education, law, and public service.

Chief Fowler’s educational background laid the foundation for her future endeavors. She attended CMS Girls’ School in Lagos and later Queen of the Rosary College in Onitsha, where she obtained her Senior Cambridge Certificate in 1951. She began her career in teaching but later pursued nursing at St Thomas’ Hospital in London. Her ambition and determination led her to study law at Middle Temple, where she was called to the Bar in 1962. Upon returning to Nigeria, she was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1963.

As a lawyer, Chief Fowler practiced with established chambers and later established her own firm, specializing in insurance law and consultancy. Her commitment to public service was evident in her role as a councillor in the Lagos City Council from 1978 to 1980. She was also involved with the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Red Cross, and the Corona Schools Trust Council.

One of Chief Fowler’s most notable achievements was the founding of the Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in 1991, in honor of her late daughter. The institution has become a leading all-girls school in Nigeria, known for its academic excellence and dedication to raising future leaders. In recognition of her contributions to education and society, Chief Fowler was awarded the chieftaincy title of Yeye Mofin of Lagos by Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II.

Throughout her life, Chief Fowler demonstrated resilience, service, and a commitment to excellence. Her legacy extends across nursing, law, politics, and education, inspiring generations with her work and values. As a “silent achiever,” she left an enduring impact on Nigerian society, and her passing marks the end of an era for a woman who dedicated her life to making a positive difference. The Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls continues to thrive, a testament to Chief Fowler’s vision and dedication to empowering young women through education.