In the heart of Nigeria’s historic Northwest, a bold educational revolution is quietly unfolding. Northwest University Sokoto, founded just over two years ago, is charting an ambitious course toward becoming a global academic hub. With a clear and compelling vision, the university is setting new standards in academic excellence, infrastructure, innovation, and student-centered learning. In this exclusive interview with THESTORIES, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Mukhtar Umar Bunza, outlines its strategic priorities and enduring commitment to empowering future leaders from Nigeria and around the world. EXCERPTS:
What is your overarching vision for Northwest University Sokoto, and what strategic steps are being taken to position it among the top universities in Nigeria?
Our vision for Northwest University Sokoto is to contribute meaningfully to the development of our immediate environment, the nation, and the world at large by promoting the idea of the university as a humane community of thinkers, scientists, and inventors.
To actualize this goal, we are implementing key strategic steps: Deployment of highly qualified academic staff, use of up-to-date literature and real-time online academic resources across all departments, and active collaboration and linkages with world-class universities and research centers both in Nigeria and abroad. These partnerships foster the cross-fertilization of ideas, technical cooperation, and exchange programmes for students and staff alike.
How is the university investing in academic infrastructure, research facilities, and curriculum development to enhance learning and innovation?
We have made significant investments in world-class academic infrastructure. The Magatakarda ICT Center stands as a major highlight—equipped with over 600 computers and 24/7 high-speed internet access. We have also built new lecture halls, a modern library complex, and ensured free internet connectivity for all students and staff across campus.
Notably, we’ve completed a new Faculty of Law Complex in Wamakko and a state-of-the-art College of Health Sciences along Kaduna Road, adjacent to the ICPC office in Sokoto. These investments, largely driven by the Founder, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, reflect a deep commitment to providing a conducive environment for academic growth and global competitiveness.
In what ways is Northwest University Sokoto fostering research, innovation, and partnerships with industries or international institutions?
In addition to our collaborations with top-tier universities and research institutions locally and internationally, we are supporting and sponsoring staff participation in academic conferences, seminars, and workshops. These platforms allow our scholars to present their research, network with global experts, and engage in advanced academic discussions, ensuring that Northwest University Sokoto remains part of the global academic conversation.
How is the university addressing student and staff welfare to ensure a motivating and inclusive learning environment?
We understand that a student’s academic performance is closely linked to their comfort and wellbeing. That’s why we’ve provided secure and fully furnished hostels at Yauri Flats and Bado Quarters, complete with mattresses, pillows, steady power and water supply. Students also enjoy 24/7 access to chilled drinking water through dispensers across campus.
For staff, we’ve ensured regular payment of salaries and entitlements. Additionally, those residing within the university quarters are allocated housing free of rent—a gesture of support and motivation from Senator Wamakko, the Founder, to encourage commitment and excellence in service delivery.
What role does Northwest University Sokoto play in the socio-economic development of its immediate community and the Northwest region at large?
Despite being a relatively young institution, Northwest University Sokoto has made substantial contributions to community development. Scholarship schemes supported by the Sokoto State Government, Senator Wamakko, and other public figures like Hon. Ahmad Kalambaina, Hon. Nasiru Bobo, and Hon. Ibrahim Almustafa Raba are enabling students from humble backgrounds to pursue higher education at our university.
Moreover, the university actively engages with traditional, religious, and community leaders within the region to build mutual trust, foster dialogue, and strengthen community-university relations. Through these engagements, we ensure that the institution remains rooted in its cultural setting while offering a forward-looking, globally competitive education.
Finally, the Northwest University Sokoto is not just another tertiary institution—it is a movement, a vision, and a commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth. From first-rate infrastructure and global linkages to community engagement and staff motivation, the university is laying a strong foundation for future scholars and leaders. For students in Nigeria and around the world seeking quality education in a nurturing environment, Northwest University Sokoto offers more than a degree—it offers a world of possibilities.
