The Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, has reportedly been shot dead in Zamfara State.

Marafa’s death was announced by the university on Sunday, September 6, 2026, in a statement signed by its Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Ajayi.

According to the institution, the senior administrator was reportedly attacked while returning from Gusau, the Zamfara State capital. However, the university did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting or identify those responsible.

The university described Marafa’s death as sudden and untimely, expressing grief over the loss of a senior member of its administration.

NOUN said Marafa was a dedicated and committed staff member who served the institution in different positions of responsibility during his career.

The university added that he assumed the position of Bursar with a strong commitment to the development and advancement of the institution.

The university community mourned Marafa as a distinguished colleague and administrator, while extending its condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and other associates.

NOUN also said details concerning his burial arrangements would be made available after consultation with the deceased’s family.

The institution prayed for the forgiveness of Marafa’s shortcomings and asked Allah to grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, while also seeking strength for his family and members of the university community to cope with the loss.

As of the latest reports, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remained unclear, with authorities yet to publicly disclose the identities of the suspected attackers or announce any arrests.