The Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Nasiru Marafa, has been shot dead while returning from Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

The university announced his death in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Ajayi.

According to the institution, Marafa was reportedly shot while on his way back from Gusau. However, the university did not disclose the exact location of the incident or provide further information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

In the statement, the university expressed sadness over the sudden death of its Bursar.

“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 Marafa.”

NOUN described Marafa as a dedicated and committed member of staff who served the institution in various positions of responsibility throughout his career.

The university said he was appointed Bursar in September 2026, taking up the position with a strong sense of duty and commitment to the advancement of the institution.

His death has since plunged the university community into mourning, with the institution describing his passing as a profound loss.

The university extended its condolences to Marafa’s immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues and all those affected by his death.