The University Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, has been killed in a shooting incident in Zamfara State.
Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau on Sunday, September 6, 2026, according to a statement issued by the university.
The notice, signed by NOUN Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi, described his death as sudden and untimely.
“According to information available to the University, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau,” the university stated.
NOUN did not disclose where the incident occurred, provide details on the circumstances leading to the shooting or identify those responsible for the killing.
The university described Marafa as a committed administrator who served the institution in various capacities before rising to the position of bursar.
He was appointed to the position in September 2026.
Reacting to his death, the university described Marafa’s passing as a “profound loss” and mourned him as a “distinguished colleague, dedicated administrator and valued member of the NOUN family.”
“The entire University community mourns the passing of a distinguished colleague, dedicated administrator and valued member of the NOUN family,” the statement added.
The institution expressed sympathy to Marafa’s immediate family, relatives, friends and colleagues, while praying for strength for them to cope with the loss.
NOUN said details of his burial would be announced once arrangements are made by the family.
The university also prayed that Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
