By Peter Omopo
Lagos, September 7, 2025
Nigeria has lost one of its foremost educationists and women’s empowerment advocates, Chief (Mrs.) Leila Fowler, who died on Saturday, September 6, at the age of 92.
Her passing was confirmed on Sunday in a statement by Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, the prestigious Lagos school she founded in 1991 in memory of her late daughter.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved founder, Chief (Mrs.) Leila Fowler,” the school said. “She was a true pioneer, an erudite lawyer, and a visionary educationalist whose life was a testament to the power of empowering young women through education.”
Life and Career
Born in Lagos on March 23, 1933, Fowler (née Moore) attended CMS Girls’ School, Lagos, and Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha, where she earned her Senior Cambridge Certificate in 1951. She initially trained as a teacher before pursuing nursing at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London. She later shifted to law, qualifying at Middle Temple in 1962 and being called to the Nigerian Bar in 1963.
She went on to build a successful legal career, specialising in insurance law and consultancy. Her public service included a tenure as councillor in the Lagos City Council between 1978 and 1980. She was also active in the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Red Cross, and the Corona Schools Trust Council.
Passion for Education
Driven by a passion for nurturing young women, Fowler established the Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in Ikeja, Lagos. Over three decades, the school has become one of Nigeria’s leading all-girls institutions, known for academic excellence and leadership development.
Honours and Legacy
In recognition of her service to society, she was conferred with the title of Yeye Mofin of Lagos by Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II. She was also remembered as a devout Christian, philanthropist, mentor, and lover of music.
Fowler was married to Professor Vidal Fowler, a distinguished surgeon and scholar, who passed away in 2015.
“Her guidance and motherly warmth built not just a school, but a community dedicated to excellence,” the college said in its tribute. “Her legacy of service, faith, and dedication will continue to inspire us all.”
