Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has officially announced the creation of governing councils for multiple state-owned higher education institutions. Additionally, he has designated Alhaji Muhammad Hamim Nuhu Sanusi, the Emir of Dutse, as the Pro-Chancellor of Sokoto State University. These decisions are effective immediately and are intended to improve oversight and management within the state’s education sector.
The newly formed councils cover a wide range of institutions, such as the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic, Shehu Shagari College of Education, Shehu Shagari University of Education, the College of Agriculture in Wurno, Sultan Abdul Rahman College of Health Technology in Gwadabawa, the College of Legal and Islamic Studies, and the College of Nursing Science in Tambuwal.
In an official statement released by Abubakar Bawa, the Director General of Media and Publicity to the Governor, specific chairpersons have been appointed for each council. Alhaji Yusha’u Kebbe will lead the council for the College of Nursing and Midwifery, while Professor Aminu Salihu Mikailu takes the helm at Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic. Ambassador Sahabi Isah Gada was chosen to chair the council for Shehu Shagari College of Education, and Professor G. V. Ardo was appointed to head the council for Shehu Shagari University of Education.
Further appointments include Alhaji Yusuf Jega as chairman of the council for the College of Agriculture in Wurno, and Alhaji Yusuf Muhammad Goronyo for Sultan Abdul Rahman College of Health Technology in Gwadabawa. Justice Ladan Buda Tsamiya will oversee the council for the College of Legal and Islamic Studies, and Professor Hamza Muhammad Maishanu will lead the council for the College of Nursing Science in Tambuwal.
Each council comprises a mix of academics, government officials, representatives from professional bodies, and key officers from the respective institutions. Their primary responsibilities include setting policy directions and supporting institutional growth.
The state government has expressed optimism that the newly established councils, along with the Emir of Dutse as Pro-Chancellor of Sokoto State University, will significantly enhance the quality of tertiary education and governance throughout Sokoto State.