The Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Nasiru Gusau Marafa, has reportedly been shot dead in Zamfara State.
The university confirmed his death in an official notice issued on Sunday by its Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Ajayi, and published on its Facebook page.
According to the institution, Marafa died on Sunday, September 6, 2026, after he was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau.
“The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Senate, Staff and Students of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), regrets to announce the sudden and untimely passing of the University Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, which occurred today, 6th Sunday, September 2026.
“According to information available to the University, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau,” the statement said.
Marafa was appointed Bursar of NOUN in September 2022 after serving in various positions of responsibility at the university.
The institution described him as a dedicated and committed staff member, saying his death represented a profound loss to the university community.
“The entire University community mourns the passing of a distinguished colleague, dedicated administrator and valued member of the NOUN family,” the university stated.
NOUN extended its condolences to Marafa’s family, relatives, friends, colleagues and members of the university community.
In a separate notice, the university announced a Janaza Ga’ib prayer for the deceased on Monday, September 7, immediately after the 1:30pm Zuhr prayer at the NOUN Jumaat Mosque in Jabi, Abuja.
The notice, signed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Shehu Usman Adamu, said former Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the NOUN Governing Council, Malam Isa Yuguda, OFR, would join other Muslim faithful at the prayer.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, is also expected to offer his condolences to the Muslim community.
The university urged family members, friends, colleagues and well-wishers to attend the prayer and pray for the repose of Marafa’s soul.
Marafa served as NOUN Bursar from his appointment in September 2022 until his death.
