Prof Tahir Assumes Duty As 5th VC Of Yobe State University

The Yobe State University (YSU), Damaturu, today formally ushered in a new era of leadership as Professor Muhammad Bashir Tahir assumed office as the fifth substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University, unveiling a policy direction anchored on continuity and academic excellence.

Professor Tahir made this known during a formal handover ceremony held at the newly renovated Senate Chamber.

Prof. Tahir’s is committed to strengthening the University’s academic and administrative systems while fostering a culture of accountability and collective responsibility.

“We are deeply grateful to Almighty Allah for this opportunity to serve,” the Vice-Chancellor said. “We sincerely appreciate the confidence reposed in us by the Executive Governor of Yobe State, the Governing Council and the search team.”

He assured the University community of inclusive leadership as he pledged to carry all stakeholders along in decision making and policy implementation to move the University forward.

The ceremony also marked the official assumption of office by Mallam Isa Audu Dallari as the Substantive Registrar, who took over from the Acting Registrar, Mallam Garba Ahmadu.

Earlier, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bukar Jamri, formally handed over the affairs of the University to Professor Tahir, describing the occasion as a historic milestone. Professor Jamri recalled that he assumed office on February 13, 2025, following the exit of the fourth Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mala Mohammed Daura.

He stated that his administration was guided by the principles of inclusive leadership and teamwork, which enabled the University to make notable progress despite prevailing challenges.

Among the major projects and achievements recorded during the period of his stewardship, Professor Jamri highlighted the construction of new infrastructural facilities, renovation and upgrade of the Senate Chamber and other key administrative facilities; facilitated the commencement of eleven new undergraduate programmes, secured full accreditation for the Clinical programmes at the College of Medical Sciences, secured additional quota for the LL. B. (Law) programme and approval to commence the LL. B. (Islamic Law) programme; enhanced staff welfare and capacity-building initiatives including recommendation of eight Readers for assessment to the rank of Professor, and twenty Senior Lecturers to the rank of Reader; strengthened student support services and academic activities; progress in research development and academic planning; and improved financial management and accountability systems.

Professor Jamri expressed gratitude to the Yobe State Government under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, CON, the University Governing Council, Management, Senate, staff, and students for their cooperation and support, which he said created an enabling environment throughout his tenure. He also congratulated the new Vice-Chancellor and Registrar, assuring them of the continued support of the University community.

Professor Tahir, a Professor of General Surgery and Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons, brings vast academic, medical, and administrative experience to the position, having previously served as Medical Director of the Ultra-Modern Police Hospital, Damaturu.

Mallam Isa Audu Dallari’s appointment as Substantive Registrar was made in accordance with the provisions of the Yobe State University Law, 2006 (as amended). He previously served the University diligently as Director, Office of the Vice-Chancellor.

The combined handover of the Vice-Chancellor and Registrar underscores continuity in leadership and signals renewed commitment to institutional growth as Yobe State University charts a new course under its substantive leadership.