Chief (Mrs.) Leila Fowler, the Yeye Mofin of Lagos and founder of the prestigious Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, has passed away at the age of 92.
Her death was confirmed in a statement released by the school on Sunday, September 7, 2025. The management described her as “a true pioneer, erudite lawyer, and visionary educationist whose life was dedicated to empowering young women through education.”
A Life Dedicated to Education and Service
Born March 23, 1933, in Lagos, Leila Fowler (née Moore) began her early education at CMS Girls’ School, Lagos, and later at Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha, where she obtained her Senior Cambridge Certificate in 1951.
She started out as a teacher before traveling to the United Kingdom to train as a nurse at St Thomas’ Hospital, London. Fowler’s academic pursuit later took her to Middle Temple, where she studied law and was called to the English Bar in 1962. She returned to Nigeria the following year to be called to the Nigerian Bar (1963).
Fowler built a distinguished career in legal practice, specializing in insurance law and consultancy. Beyond the courtroom, she actively participated in public service, serving as a councillor in the Lagos City Council (1978–1980) and contributing to organizations such as the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Red Cross, and the Corona Schools Trust Council.
Founding Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls
In 1991, Fowler founded the Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in honour of her late daughter. The school has since grown into one of Nigeria’s leading all-girls institutions, renowned for its strong culture of academic excellence, leadership training, and moral discipline.
The institution has produced generations of accomplished women across various fields, solidifying Fowler’s vision of raising young women who would take leadership roles in society.
Honours and Legacy
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Fowler was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Yeye Mofin of Lagos by the late Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II. She was also widely respected as a devout Christian, philanthropist, music lover, and mentor to countless students.
Fowler was married to the late Professor Vidal Fowler, a distinguished surgeon and scholar, until his passing in 2015.
In its tribute, the school described her as a guiding light:
“Her guidance and motherly warmth built not just a school, but a community dedicated to excellence. Her legacy of service, faith, and dedication will continue to inspire us all.”
