The Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria, Nasiru Marafa, has reportedly been shot dead in Zamfara State.
The university disclosed this in an official notice issued on Sunday by its Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Ajayi, and posted on its Facebook page.
The notice said Marafa’s death occurred on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
“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, Sunday, 6th 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.
Describing him as a “dedicated and committed staff member,” the university said his death was 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 statement said.
The university extended its condolences to his family, relatives, friends, colleagues and other members of the NOUN community.
In a subsequent notice, NOUN 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, Jabi, Abuja.
According to the notice signed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Shehu Usman Adamu, former Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the NOUN Governing Council, Malam Isa Yuguda, OFR, will be among the Muslim faithful offering prayers.
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 deceased.
Marafa was appointed Bursar of NOUN in September 2022 and served in the position until his death.