A Veterinary Doctor who worked in Nigeria and adopted a son from one of his staff who served him whilst in the country - Dr. William John Herbert, has passed away in his sleep. Dr Herbert died at his home in Edinburgh at the age of 90.
He served under the British colonial government in northern Nigeria, and was in charge of veterinary services in Northern Nigeria. He at one time or the other, lived in Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Borno and Sokoto States.
William John Herbert
William John Herbert
He was amongst the British team who received and toured the north with Queen Elizabeth when she visited Nigeria before independence.
The Late Dr. William John Herbert provided vaccinations and medical care to thousands of animals (especially cattle) across the whole Northern Nigeria States.
He succeeded in reducing mortality rates in animals whilst improving upon their health, life span and reproductivity.
John specialised in immunology from Universities of Dundee and Glasgow.
During his active life, John provided mentorship and supervision to some Nigerian PhD students, with at least 6 of who became Professors.
William John Herbert did not have any biological children of his own. He adopted a son from one of his staff who served him whilst in Northern Nigeria.
That son produced 7 grand-children all of whom were very well known, loved and cared for by John.
John understood and spoke Hausa language. He loved Nigerian Arts and Crafts and studied many aspects of it in great detail. He loved and sought after the works of Lady Kwali at auctions.
In his home in Edinburgh, he dedicated a large room displaying Nigerian Art and Culture (Yoruba, Hausa, Ibo and several other communities within Nigeria). It can be referred to as the Nigerian art and culture museum in Edinburgh.
“Uncle Herbert” as we call him, was always available as a resource base, a mentor and a teacher to some in the Diaspora.
It was Uncle Herbie who signposted many Nigerians to the British-Nigeria Association, and he did an admirable job in imparting history to those around him. He radiated humour and hope to all who knew him.
William John Herbert was a strong member and one time Master of the Cutlers Arms - (a Guild of skilled crafts persons - manufacturers of knives) with a history and recorded evidence of existence that predates Christianity.
The Burial Service will be at Warrington Crematorium (Cloister Chapel), Edinburgh on Friday, 16th February at 1.30pm.
Donations may be sent to Animal Care Trust c/o Royal Veterinary College.