Breaking: Publishing Icon Chief Joop Berkhout Passes Away at 94
Jerry Adesewo
Ibadan, Nigeria – The literary and publishing world is in mourning following the passing of Chief Joop Berkhout, a naturalised Nigerian, revered publisher, and traditional titleholder, Okunborode of Ile-Ife. Chief Berkhout, born in Amsterdam on March 31, 1930, passed away peacefully at 94 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
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Renowned as a pioneer in Nigeria’s publishing industry, Chief Berkhout was the founding Managing Director of Evans Brothers in 1967 before establishing Spectrum Books Ltd in 1978. His passion for books and education led to the creation of Safari Books Ltd in 1991. Over the decades, he played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s literary landscape, publishing groundbreaking works and mentoring generations of publishers.
For his immense contributions to education and publishing in Nigeria, he was awarded the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). He was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Okunborode of Ife in 1992. He also served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, Delta State.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the literary and academic communities. Professor Okey Ndibe, reflecting on Berkhout’s legacy, described him as a “big and consequential player in Nigeria’s domestic publishing scene,” as he recalled a visit to Berkhout’s Ibadan home in 2017, where he was captivated by the publisher’s deep knowledge of literature and history.
Renowned photographer and author, Dayo Adedayo, also shared his heartfelt tribute, noting that Chief Berkhout was “a legend in Nigerian publishing, a man of integrity, wisdom, and boundless energy.” He recounted their bond and how Berkhout, even at 90, remained active in the book industry, passionately selling and promoting literature.
Berkhout’s final moments reflected the dignity and grace with which he lived—having breakfast, requesting a prayer from his pastor, and then peacefully passing away.
His departure marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Nigeria’s literary and publishing sector will endure for generations. Chief Joop Berkhout leaves behind an indelible legacy of knowledge, mentorship, and an unwavering belief in the power of the written word.