The Governing Council’s decision was conveyed in an official letter signed by Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council. The appointment is for a single term of five years and will take effect from August 18, 2025.
“The Governing Council of Bayero University, Kano in the exercise of the powers conferred on it by section 4 of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provision) Amendment Act, 2003, at its meeting held on Thursday, 03 July, 2025 considered the submission from the Selection Board, hereby approved your appointment as the substantive Vice Chancellor,” the letter stated.
Dr. Gawuna, while congratulating Professor Musa, also offered prayers for a successful tenure, reflecting the university’s hope for continuity and progress under the new leadership.
A Scholar with Deep Kano Roots
Born on June 20, 1967, in Dambatta, Kano State, Professor Musa has a longstanding connection to the region and the university itself.
His educational journey began at Sabuwar Unguwa Primary School, Dambatta (1974–1980), followed by Government Secondary School Dambatta (1980–1985). He completed his Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMBE) certificate at the College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies (CASRS), Kano, in 1988.
Musa then earned his BSc (Hons) in Chemistry from Bayero University, Kano in 1991, and an MSc in Polymer Chemistry from the same institution in 1999. Seeking further academic advancement, he obtained a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Bristol, United Kingdom, in 2009.
During his doctoral studies, he also gained industry experience as a part-time Chemist with Revolymer Ltd, a spin-off company of the University of Bristol, adding a practical dimension to his academic expertise.
Researcher with Proven Track Record
Professor Musa is widely regarded for his research contributions, particularly in applied chemistry and energy solutions. He served as Principal Investigator on a major project titled Development of Electrically Rechargeable Zinc Air Battery for Rural Electrification using Carbon-based Nanomaterials.
This project received funding of ₦36 million from Nigeria’s National Research Fund and ran from 2020 to 2024, underlining Musa’s ability to attract competitive grants for impactful research.
He has also participated as a research partner in two Institution-Based Research (IBR) grants awarded in 2019 and 2023, valued at ₦2 million and ₦1.7 million respectively.
Expectations for the Next Five Years
As Vice Chancellor, Professor Musa will be expected to strengthen BUK’s academic reputation, improve infrastructure, and foster an environment that supports research and innovation. His track record suggests a strong commitment to applied research that addresses real-world challenges, aligning with national priorities such as energy access and technology development.
The university community and broader academic stakeholders will watch closely as he takes the reins in August 2025, tasked with steering Bayero University Kano through a rapidly evolving higher education landscape in Nigeria.