Sep 6, 2026

NOUN Bursar Nasiru Marafa Shot Dead While Returning From Gusau in Zamfara

By Afolabi Idowu Olaiya in news

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Abuja, Nigeria—September 6, 2026—The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is in mourning after the sudden death of its Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, who was shot dead on Sunday while returning from Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State.

In an official statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi, the university announced the “sudden and untimely passing” of Marafa.

The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Senate, staff and students, expressed profound regret over the loss.

“According to information available to the University, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau,” the statement read.

NOUN did not disclose the exact location of the incident, the circumstances surrounding the attack, or the identity of those responsible.

One report indicated that gunmen attacked him along the Gusau-Marafa road, though the university itself has not confirmed further details.

A Dedicated Administrator

Marafa was appointed Bursar of NOUN on September 17, 2022, for a five-year tenure that was due to end in September 2027.

Before rising to the position, he had served the university in various capacities and earned a reputation as a committed and capable administrator.

The university described him as a “dedicated and committed staff member” who served meritoriously and held several positions of responsibility. His death, the statement said, represents a “profound loss” to the institution.

“The entire University community mourns the passing of a distinguished colleague, dedicated administrator and valued member of the NOUN family,” the notice stated.

NOUN extended its deepest condolences to Marafa’s immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues and all those affected by the tragedy.

The university said burial arrangements would be communicated once details are released by the family.

A subsequent notice announced a Janaza Ga’ib prayer for the deceased, scheduled for Monday, September 7, immediately after the 1:30pm Zuhr prayer at the NOUN Jumaat Mosque in Jabi, Abuja.

Security Concerns in Zamfara

The killing has once again drawn attention to the precarious security situation in parts of Zamfara State, where travellers on major roads have long faced threats from armed groups.

As of the time of this report, no arrests have been announced, and investigations into the circumstances of Marafa’s death are expected to continue.

The university community continues to grieve the loss of one of its senior officers, remembering him for his service and dedication to the institution.