The National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, has announced the death of its Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Marafa, who was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau.
The announcement was made in an official notice signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi, on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
According to the university, the incident occurred earlier on Sunday. Details surrounding the attack were not provided.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Senate, Staff and Students of the National Open University of Nigeria, regrets to announce the sudden and untimely passing of the University Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa,” the statement said.
The university described the late bursar as a dedicated and committed staff member who served meritoriously and held various positions of responsibility during his career.
He was appointed Bursar of NOUN in September 2022, a position he assumed “with a strong sense of duty and commitment to the advancement of the University.”
“His sudden demise is 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 statement added.
The university extended its deepest condolences to his immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues, and the entire NOUN community.
“We pray that the Almighty Allah grants the family and the entire University community the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” it said.
The university noted that further information on burial arrangements will be communicated once released by the family.
“May the Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and grant his family, friends, colleagues and the entire University community the strength to bear this painful loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
A Janaza prayer has earlier been scheduled for Monday, September 7, 2026, at the NOUN Jumaat Mosque, Jabi, Abuja.
