In a significant move for higher education in Kano State, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has officially approved the appointment of a new substantive Vice-Chancellor for Northwest University.
A Landmark Appointment for Northwest University
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, acting in his capacity as the Visitor to Northwest University, has given his formal approval for the appointment of Professor Amina Salihi Bayero as the institution's substantive Vice-Chancellor. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the university, setting its leadership for the next half-decade. The appointment is set for a five-year tenure, officially commencing on Monday, 1 December 2025.
The governor's approval was not made in isolation. It came as a direct endorsement of a recommendation put forward by the University Council. The council reached its decision after conducting what has been described as a rigorous and transparent selection process designed to identify the most qualified candidate.
Upholding Merit and Integrity
In his statement following the approval, Governor Yusuf took a moment to commend the Chairman and members of the University Council. He praised their dedication to upholding the core principles of merit and integrity throughout the entire selection exercise. The governor emphasized the importance of such values in ensuring that academic leadership appointments are beyond reproach.
Furthermore, Governor Yusuf, highlighting the significance of the role, requested prayers for divine guidance. He asked for Allah's blessings and wisdom to be upon Professor Bayero as she prepares to take on the immense responsibilities of her new office.
Meet the New Vice-Chancellor: A Trailblazing Scholar
The newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amina Salihi Bayero, is a figure of immense repute in Nigeria's academic community. A distinguished scholar in the field of Analytical Chemistry, she holds the historic distinction of being the first female to earn a PhD in Chemistry from the prestigious Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
Professor Bayero's career is a testament to steady growth and proven capability. She has accumulated extensive experience across various academic and administrative roles, building a robust profile for university leadership. Her previous positions include serving as Head of Department, where she managed academic units, and later as Dean of the Faculty of Science, overseeing a broader academic portfolio.
Most recently, she held the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano. This role provided her with critical high-level administrative experience, directly preparing her for the challenges of leading an entire university. Beyond her administrative duties, she is widely respected within scientific circles for her substantive research contributions and her steadfast commitment to mentoring the next generation of young scientists.
Implications for Academic Excellence and Inclusion
This appointment is expected to have a far-reaching impact on Northwest University and the broader educational landscape in Kano State. Analysts and stakeholders anticipate that Professor Bayero's leadership will bring a renewed focus on strengthening academic excellence, research output, and the overall quality of education at the institution.
Equally important is the symbolic and practical significance of her appointment in promoting gender inclusion. By appointing a highly qualified female academic to one of the highest offices in state university leadership, the Kano State government is sending a powerful message about diversity and equal opportunity in higher education. Her success is seen as a beacon that will inspire more women to pursue and attain top leadership roles within academia across Northern Nigeria.
The combination of her impeccable academic credentials, proven administrative track record, and dedication to mentorship positions Professor Amina Salihi Bayero as a leader poised to guide Northwest University into a new era of growth and distinction.
