Association of Bursars of Nigerian Universities Pays Condolence Visit to NOUN Over Demise of Bursar

The Association of Bursars of Nigerian Universities, ABNU, on Monday, 15th September 2025, paid a condolence visit to the management of the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, over the demise of the university’s Bursar, Late Malam Nasiru Marafa.

Speaking during the visit, the leader of the delegation and President of the Association, Dr. Hadiza Goje, said until his death, Late Marafa was the Treasurer of the Association.

"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of one of our own. His death came as a rude shock and we are yet to come to terms with it," Dr. Goje said.

She described his death as a life thwarted, as his life was cut short at a time his services were most needed.

Dr. Goje further described the late Bursar as a kind, gentle and amiable colleague who was always soft-spoken but firm in his convictions.

"We are here as a body to commiserate with ourselves, because this loss is both ours and yours," she said.

She thanked the management of NOUN for granting them the opportunity to pay their respects.

Responding on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Technology, Innovation and Research, Prof. Christine Ofulue, commended the Association for their show of comradeship and solidarity.

"The shock of Nasiru’s demise to many of us is as if he has only travelled. It is difficult to believe he is gone," Prof. Ofulue said.

She noted that this is the first time in the 25-year history of the University that a Principal Officer has passed on while in active service.

"This university has produced so many of your members and will continue to produce more," she added, assuring the Association of NOUN’s continued collaboration.

She lamented the frequent loss of lives on the Gusau-Sokoto road axis and prayed for an end to such tragic occurrences.

"We are not promised tomorrow, so we should all live lives of impact before we eventually leave," she concluded.