Chief Joop Berkhout, a naturalised Nigerian and distinguished publisher, has passed away at 94 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Born in Amsterdam on March 31, 1930, he was a traditional titleholder, the Okunborode of Ile-Ife, and a recipient of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
A pioneer in Nigeria’s publishing industry, Berkhout was the founding Managing Director of Evans Brothers in 1967 before establishing Spectrum Books in 1978 and Safari Books in 1991.
He trained many leading publishers and significantly contributed to Nigeria’s educational sector. He also served as the Pro-Chancellor of Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, Delta State.
Joop Berkhout leaves behind an enduring legacy in publishing, education, and Nigerian history. His impact will be felt for generations, as the books and knowledge he championed continue to shape minds.
