Governing Council
Distinguished leaders dedicated to the service and advancement of Northwest University Sokoto.
H.E. Senator (Dr.) Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko
Founder & Chairman of Council
A seasoned politician and educator, he served as the Governor of Sokoto State (2007–2015) and is currently the Senator for Sokoto North Senatorial District. A recipient of The Sun Lifetime Achievement Award, he is recognized for his enduring dedication to public service, governance, and the socio-economic development of Nigeria.
H.E. Senator (Dr.) Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko
Founder & Chairman of Council
Educational and Early Career: Wamakko attended Sokoto Teachers' College from 1968 to 1972. After graduation, he worked as a teacher from 1973 to 1977 before pursuing further studies at the University of Pittsburgh in the United States, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in August 1980. Upon returning to Nigeria, he resumed his teaching career at Sokoto Teachers' College.
Political Career: Wamakko's political journey began in local government administration, where he served in various capacities, including as Chairman of the Sokoto Local Government Area from 1986 to 1987. He was elected Deputy Governor of Sokoto State in 1999 under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and was re-elected in 2003. In 2007, he became the Governor of Sokoto State on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). His initial election was annulled in 2008 due to party affiliation issues, but he won the subsequent re-run election. He was re-elected as governor in 2011.
Wamakko was elected Senator of Sokoto North Senatorial District under the All Progressives Congress (APC) after serving as Governor till 2015. He has continued to serve in the Senate, greatly contributing to national growth.
Recent Recognition:In 2024, Senator Wamakko was honored with The Sun Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his enduring impact on governance and community development.
Throughout his career, Senator Wamakko has been acknowledged for his dedication to public service and his efforts to advance the socio-economic development of Sokoto State and Nigeria.
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Professor Mukhtar Umar Bunza
Vice Chancellor / Member
A distinguished academic specializing in Social History, he joined Northwest University as Vice-Chancellor in January 2025 after a long tenure at Usmanu Danfodiyo University. He holds a Ph.D. in History and has completed postdoctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions including the University of London and Northwestern University, USA.
Professor Mukhtar Umar Bunza
Vice Chancellor / Member
In January 2025, Professor Bunza was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Northwest University, Sokoto, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Throughout his career, Professor Bunza has contributed extensively to the field of Social History, with numerous publications and research endeavors that have enriched the academic community.
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Hon. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi (Katukan Sokoto)
Member
The Katukan Sokoto is a veteran public servant who previously served as the Minister of Police Affairs and Secretary to the Sokoto State Government. In October 2024, he was appointed as the Minister of Labour and Employment, bringing decades of administrative and political experience to the Council.
Hon. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi (Katukan Sokoto)
Member
Honorable Dingyadi has held several significant positions throughout his career. He represented the Bodinga Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and served as the Secretary to the Sokoto State Government. In August 2019, he was appointed as the Minister of Police Affairs under President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, a role he held until May 2023.
In October 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Dingyadi as the Minister of Labour and Employment, recognizing his extensive experience in public service.
Throughout his career, Dingyadi has been committed to public service and governance, contributing significantly to the political and administrative landscape of Nigeria.
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Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq.
Member
An accomplished lawyer and administrator, he currently serves as the Minister of State for Works and previously held multiple commissioner roles in Sokoto State. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and has over three decades of experience in legislative governance, having served as Deputy Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly.
Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq.
Member
Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo is an accomplished lawyer, administrator, and politician with over three decades of distinguished service in public administration, legislative governance, legal practice, and national development. Born on January 1st, 1966 in Sabon Garin Dole, he has risen to become one of Nigeria’s respected public figures, serving at state and federal levels.
He currently serves as the Hon. Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works, where he contributes to national infrastructure development and policy implementation.
BIO DATA:
Date of Birth: January 1, 1966
Place of Birth: Sabon Garin Dole
State of Origin: Sokoto
LGA: Goronyo
Marital Status: Married
Nationality: Nigerian
Religion: Islam
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND & QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. in Leadership & Strategic Studies (In View), Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna
- Master of Philosophy in Leadership & Strategic Studies, NDA (2021)
- Master in Business Management & Leadership, London Graduate School, UK (2019)
- Masters in Energy Security Management, NDA (2019)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Usmanu Danfodiyo University (1997)
- BL, Nigerian Law School (2001)
- NYSC Exemption Certificate (1998)
- Diploma in Law, College of Arts & Science (1990)
- Secondary School Certificate, Government College, Sokoto (1986)
- Primary School Certificate, Kofar Marke Primary School (1981)
POLITICAL CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Works (2024–Date)
- Minister of State, Ministry of Water Resources & Sanitation (2023–2024)
- Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Sokoto State (2018–2019)
- Commissioner, Ministry of Energy Development (2017–2018)
- Commissioner, Ministry of Solid Minerals & Natural Resources (2015–2017)
- Member, Sokoto State House of Assembly (2007–2011; 2011–2015)
- Interim Organizing Secretary, APC Sokoto State (2014)
- Secretary, APC Legal Committee (2015 Elections)
- Various leadership roles in DPP (2006–2007)
WORKING EXPERIENCE
- Rafi Law Chambers, Sokoto (2006–2007)
- Adamu Umar & Co. (Law Chambers), Sokoto (2001–2006)
- Lecturer, State College of Legal & Islamic Studies, Sokoto (2001–2006)
- Principal Orientation Officer, National Orientation Agency (1993–2001)
- Legal Translator, Sokoto State House of Assembly (1992–1993)
- Vital Registration Assistant, National Population Commission (1991–1992)
KEY POSITIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Secretary, Planning & Implementation Committee, North West University (2020–2023)
- Deputy Speaker, Sokoto State House of Assembly (2015)
- Deputy House Leader (2011–2015)
- Chairman, House Committee on Rural Development (2011–2015)
- Minority Leader, Sokoto House of Assembly (2007–2011)
- Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary (2007–2011)
- Chairman, Transportation Committee, 2015 Hajj Operations (Saudi Arabia)
- Member, Sokoto State Constitutional Review Committee (2010)
- Member, Multiple Hajj Committees (2008–2015)
CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS
- Member, North West University Governance Council (2024)
- Honorary Member, Nigerian Society of Hydrologists (2024)
- Member, Nigerian Bar Association
- Member, Environmental Society of Nigeria
- Patron & Adviser to several NGOs and community initiatives
- Legal Adviser, UDUS Alumni Association (2013)
AWARDS & HONOURS
- NBA Young Lawyers Forum Award of Excellence (2025)
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University Award Association Excellence Award (2024)
- New National Star Newspaper Public Service Excellence Award (2024)
- Outstanding Leadership Award by NBA (2024)
- Global Lifetime Achiever’s International Gold Award, Ghana (2010)
- Multiple merit awards from communities, NGOs, and professional bodies
TRAVELS
Widely travelled across all 36 states of Nigeria and internationally, including: Saudi Arabia, USA, UK, UAE, Egypt, Turkey, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Niger, Sudan, Malaysia, Burkina Faso, Australia, South Africa, Northern Ireland, Morocco, Japan, Germany, Italy, Sweden, South Korea, among others.
LANGUAGES
English, Hausa, Fulfulde
HOBBIES
Helping the less privileged, reading, and travelling.
REFEREES
1. Justice Audu Aboki (Rtd.), Justice of the Supreme Court
2. H.E. Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, National Assembly Complex
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Hon. Ahmad Abdullahi Kalambaina
Member
Representing the Kware/Wamakko Federal Constituency, he is a dedicated legislator with a robust background in local administration, having served as Chairman of Wamakko Local Government. In the National Assembly, he has focused heavily on humanitarian concerns, serving as Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Internally Displaced Persons.
Hon. Ahmad Abdullahi Kalambaina
Member
Political Career:
Local Government Roles: Prior to his tenure in the House of Representatives, Kalambaina held several key positions in local government, including:
- Supervisory Councillor
- Local Government Vice Chairman
- Twice served as Local Government Chairman
- Sole Administrator and Caretaker Chairman of Wamakko Local Government Area
- Secretary of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Sokoto State
National Assembly: Elected as the member representing Kware/Wamakko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in 2019, he served as the Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) during the 9th Assembly. In the 2023 elections, he secured re-election to continue serving in the 10th Assembly.
Legislative Interests and Achievements:
Throughout his legislative career, Kalambaina has focused on issues pertaining to internally displaced persons, reflecting his commitment to addressing humanitarian concerns within Nigeria. His extensive experience in local governance has informed his approach to national legislation, particularly in areas affecting local communities.
Honorable Ahmad Abdullahi Kalambaina's career trajectory showcases a deep commitment to public service, with significant contributions at both local and national levels.
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Professor Musa Garba Maitafsir
Member
A Professor of Educational Psychology, he currently serves as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education. He formerly led the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), where he was instrumental in expanding distance learning opportunities and enhancing teacher training standards across Nigeria.
Professor Musa Garba Maitafsir
Member
Educational Background:
- He began his education at Yabo Town Primary School (1972–1976) and attended Government Teachers’ College, Wurno (1976–1981).
- He earned a B.A. Ed. degree from the University of Sokoto in 1987, followed by an M.Ed. in Educational Psychology in 1992 and a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology.
Academic and Administrative Roles:
- Professor Maitafsir has served as a staff member at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, specializing in Educational Psychology.
- In 2021, he was appointed Director-General and Chief Executive of the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), Kaduna. During his tenure, he focused on enhancing teacher training quality and aligning Nigerian teachers with international standards.
Notable Achievements:
- Under his leadership, NTI received approval to award degrees in Education through Distance Learning, expanding opportunities for aspiring educators.
- He addressed financial challenges by reducing over 95% of the N1.2 billion debt inherited at NTI, demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
Professor Maitafsir's career reflects a steadfast commitment to advancing education in Nigeria, particularly in teacher development and educational psychology.
Professor Maitafsir is currently the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC). His career has focused on educational development, including training teachers and promoting science and technology education.
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Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru Galadanchi (Galadiman Garin Sokoto)
Member
As the 16th Galadiman Garin Sokoto, he holds a senior counselor position within the Sultanate Council, contributing to decisions on cultural and traditional affairs. He is actively engaged in community development, particularly in agricultural support and the preservation of the Sokoto Caliphate’s rich heritage.
Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru Galadanchi (Galadiman Garin Sokoto)
Member
Roles and Contributions:
Senior Counselor: As Galadiman Garin Sokoto, Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru holds a senior counselor position within the Sultanate Council, contributing to decisions that impact the region's cultural and traditional affairs.
Community Engagement:
Throughout his tenure, Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru has been actively involved in various community initiatives, including:
- Agricultural Support: Representing the Sultan of Sokoto at events such as the distribution of fertilizers and agrochemicals to farmers, demonstrating his dedication to agricultural development.
- Cultural Preservation: Participating in cultural and religious ceremonies, thereby preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate.
Alhaji Aliyu Attahiru Galadanchi's leadership continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining the cultural integrity and societal development of Sokoto State.
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Alhaji Bello Abubakar Wamakko, mni
Member
A distinguished professional and member of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), he serves on the board of Jedo Investment Company Ltd. He is a certified public accountant and a member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), combining private sector strategy with public service standards.
Alhaji Bello Abubakar Wamakko, mni
Member
Professional Background:
Non-Executive Director at Jedo Investment Company Ltd: Alhaji Wamakko serves on the board of Jedo Investment Company Ltd, bringing his extensive experience to the organization's strategic direction.
jedoinvestment.com
Professional Affiliations: - Member of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS): His affiliation with NIPSS underscores his involvement in national policy development and strategic initiatives.
- Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN): As a member of ANAN, he aligns with Nigeria's professional accounting standards and practices.
- Nigeria Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CPA): His membership in this institute highlights his commitment to maintaining high standards in public accounting.
Educational Background:
Alhaji Wamakko's educational journey includes studies at various institutions, culminating in advanced qualifications that have equipped him for his diverse roles.
Through his varied roles and affiliations, Alhaji Bello Abubakar Wamakko has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to professional excellence and national development.
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Engr. (Alh) Faruk Mu’azu Mayana
Member
An architect and infrastructure specialist with over 30 years of experience, he has led major housing projects for the Federal Housing Authority and served in the Ministry of Local Government. He holds a Masters in Architecture and is a Fellow of the Institute of Industrialists and Corporate Administrators.
Engr. (Alh) Faruk Mu’azu Mayana
Member
Faruk Mu’azu Mayana is an accomplished architect and infrastructure development expert with over 30 years of progressive professional experience in architectural design, project supervision, public sector infrastructure planning, and local government capital project administration across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Abuja.
Born on 24th May 1970 in Gusau, Zamfara State, Faruk has built a distinguished career in architecture, public works, and construction management. His expertise spans architectural design, project evaluation, contract documentation, housing development, and multi-sector project monitoring for various government agencies.
EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
- Masters in Architecture – Uganda Technical College Lira (2017)
- Bachelor of Architecture – Kyambogo University, Uganda (2014)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Civil Engineering – Bayero University Kano (2007)
- MBA, Management – Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (1998)
- PGD Management – Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (1996)
- HND Architecture – Polytechnic Birnin Kebbi (1993)
- OND Architecture – Sokoto State Polytechnic (1990)
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
1. Assistant Technical Officer (Architecture) – Ministry of Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs, Sokoto (1990–1991)
- Architectural drawings, contract document preparation, and stabilization fund project supervision.
2. Higher Technical Officer (Architecture), GL 08 – Military Governor’s Office, Sokoto (1994–1996)
- Local government project inspection.
- Preparation of capital project budgets and certificates of completion.
3. Acting Deputy Project Programme Manager – Military Governor’s Office, Sokoto (1995–1996)
- Monitoring and evaluation of local government projects.
- Resource engagement and technical site assessments.
4. Acting Project Programme Manager, GL 09 – Department of Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs, Gusau (1996–1998)
- Oversight of capital projects and stabilization funds across councils.
5. Principal Technical Officer II / Resource Person, GL 10 – Federal Housing Authority, Sokoto & Abuja (1998–2001)
- Housing project inspection.
- Preparation of valuation certificates and stage approval for constructions.
Team Leader, GL 12 – GL 14 – Federal Housing Authority (2002–2015)
- Led the Gwampa III Housing Project Team VI.
- Supervised National Housing Project (Sector C) at Lugbe Head.
- Handled pre-inspection, site evaluation, technical approvals, and handover processes.
- Coordinated supervision teams including architects, builders, and engineers.
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
- Associate Member, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
- Fellow, Institute of Industrialists and Corporate Administrators
PERSONAL PROFILE
Faruk is known for his adaptability, technical precision, and commitment to quality in infrastructure development.
HOBBIES
- Horse riding
- Reading
- Humanitarian and community development activities
REFEREES
- His Excellency Dr. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Sarkin Yamman Sokoto
- His Highness Emir of Gummi, Hon. Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi
- Barr. Yakubu Dan Foloti, General Manager, Management Service, FHA Abuja
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Registrar
Registrar / Secretary to the Council
Alh. Umar Musa GarunBabba is a seasoned administrator with a background in education and long-standing service in academic registry roles, including Registrar of the College of Arts and Science Kano and Director of Special Assignment in the Kano State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. He has served as Registrar of Northwest University Sokoto since August 2022.
Registrar
Registrar / Secretary to the Council
His administrative tenure includes high-level roles such as Deputy Registrar In charge of Intermediate and Junior Staff (2004–2008), where he handled staff promotions and annual leave rosters, and Deputy Registrar Students Affairs, where he managed student welfare, health care, and served as secretary to the students’ disciplinary committee,. Mr. GarunBabba served as the Registrar of the College of Art and Science (CAS) Kano from 2013 to 2019, being directly responsible for staff development, daily establishments, and serving as the secretary for the governing council, Management, and Academic Board. Following his tenure at CAS, he was appointed as Director Special Assignment in the Ministry of Science Technology and Innovation, Kano State, a role he has held since January 2019. Furthermore, his experience includes several government appointments outside of academic administration, such as Sole Administrator for Tarauni Local Government Area in 2007. He currently serves as the Registrar of Northwest University Sokoto, a position he has held since August 8th, 2022.
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