Emir of Yauri Installed as First Chancellor of AFUSTA in Kebbi

By Umar Faruk

Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria — Jan 10, 2026(Series news online)

In a historic ceremony today, Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, officially installed His Royal Highness, Dr. Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, the Emir of Yauri, as the first Chancellor of the Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology, Aliero (AFUSTA). The investiture took place at the university's convocation arena, just moments before the commencement of its maiden combined convocation ceremony. 

While administering the oath of office, Governor Idris expressed his full confidence in the appointment, citing the Emir's distinguished background. "I have no doubt in appointing the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, because his past records speak volumes, particularly in the education sector," the governor stated. He highlighted the Emir's experience as a former university lecturer who rose to become an acting Vice-Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, and urged him to "put his wealth of experience into bringing more development to the university".  The appointment has been widely praised, with the Emir of Gwandu describing it as a well-deserved and carefully considered choice that blends knowledge with leadership. 

In his acceptance speech, the new Chancellor, Dr. Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, expressed his profound appreciation to Governor Idris for finding him "worthy to be appointed Chancellor." He assured the governor and the university community of his dedication to ensuring the institution excels in all academic areas and in building character. "I seek the support from all the academic and non-academic staff, council, and the university senate, in order to achieve the mandate and confidence reposed in me," the Chancellor pledged.

The Chancellor also took the opportunity to thank the many dignitaries present for the university's historic convocation, which saw 7,221 students graduate and honorary doctorates conferred upon several prominent Nigerians, including the governors of Kebbi, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Imo, as well as the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife.