From Abdullahi Idris, Dutse
The Jigawa State Government, has formally taken over Khadija University, Majia, following its purchase from a private owner and renamed it Jigawa State University of Medical and Allied Health Sciences, Majia.
The ceremony held in Majia, was led by Governor Malam Umar Namadi, alongside some members of the State Executive Council Members, State House of Assembly, traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders.
For Governor Namadi, the moment marked the conclusion of a deliberate process that began about two years ago.
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“Today marks another important milestone for us in our educational advancement in Jigawa State. Today, we are completing a process we have started in the last two years—that is, the process of taking over Khadija University by the Jigawa State Government,” he said.
He explained that the acquisition of the university, now transitioned into a state-owned institution, was driven by clear objective: expanding access to quality medical education and creating opportunities for young people across Jigawa.
“We deliberately chose to acquire this university to provide more opportunities for our youth.”
Already, steps have been taken to reposition the institution, as the state has begun upgrading infrastructure and putting in place a competent management team to guide its transformation.
“We have started improvements in the infrastructure of this university. We are also doing everything possible to ensure that the university becomes one of the first-class universities in this country.”
He pointed out that the new university will help in reducing the number of students sent to study medicine abroad from the state and beyond.
“You will recall that presently we have over 180 students studying medicine overseas. Now, the acquisition of this university will save a lot of foreign exchange, not only for Jigawa State but for Nigeria in general.
The governor also acknowledged the founder and original owner of the institution, Dr. Musa Majia, for laying the foundation upon which the new university is being built.
“In fact, the history of education in Jigawa State will not be complete without your name,” he said.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment, he assured the university leadership of sustained support.
“Mr. Vice Chancellor, I want to assure you that the Jigawa State government will always be there for you… to ensure the success of this university.”
The new Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Mahmoud Sani, described the transformation as both strategic and timely.
“Your decision to acquire and transform this institution into a specialized university of medical and allied health sciences is far more than an administrative act; it is a masterstroke of strategic governance,” he said.
He added that the move represents “a bold investment in the human capital of Jigawa State, directly addressing the critical shortage of healthcare professionals.”
Underlining its regional significance, the VC noted:
“It is worth noting… that JSUMAHS is the first state-owned Medical and Allied Health University in Northern Nigeria. This puts Jigawa at the forefront of medical education in the region.”
Providing insight into how the transition was achieved, the Chairman of the Transition Committee, Dr. Lawan Danzomo, described the process as structured and transparent.
“This ceremony represents the orderly conclusion of a structured, transparent, and collaborative process undertaken in the public interest,” he said.
He explained that the committee ensured due process throughout. “The Committee was charged with facilitating a seamless transfer of ownership… ensuring full compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.”
With the takeover completed, he noted that the institution is now entering a new phase. “The conclusion of this handing/taking over process marks the commencement of a new phase in the development of this institution.”
