Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has approved the appointment of the Emir of Lafia, His Royal Highness Justice Sidi Muhammad Bage (Rtd), as the new Chancellor of North-West University, Kano.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, in Kano. The decision has been widely praised by stakeholders, who view it as a strategic step towards deepening collaboration between traditional institutions and the country’s higher education system.
Born on June 22, 1956, in Lafia, Nasarawa State, the Emir holds a diploma and an LLB from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981. His distinguished judicial career began as a Magistrate in 1982, progressing to High Court Judge in 1992, Court of Appeal Justice in 2007, and culminating in his appointment to the Supreme Court of Nigeria in January 2017.
Following the passing of his predecessor, Isa Mustapha Agwai I, he ascended the throne in March 2019 as the 17th Emir of Lafia. He is widely regarded as a symbol of peace, justice, and communal harmony.
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In his remarks, Governor Yusuf said the appointment reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to excellence, national development, and institutional integrity. He emphasized that selecting a former Supreme Court Justice and respected traditional ruler aligns with the university’s values and will inspire the academic community.
The Governor further noted the Emir’s track record of fairness, civic leadership, and dedication to public service as key attributes that will contribute positively to the university’s growth and strategic direction.
The formal letter of appointment was presented to the Emir on Sunday by the Chairman of the University Council, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, accompanied by Vice Chancellor Prof. Mukhtar Kurawa.