Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has appointed His Royal Highness, Justice (Rtd.) Sidi Muhammad Bage, the Emir of Lafia, as the new Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano.

The announcement was made on Sunday through a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

According to the release, the appointment is part of the governor’s broader vision to strengthen ties between Nigeria’s traditional institutions and centers of learning, while promoting leadership based on integrity and service.

Born on June 22, 1956, in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Justice Bage studied law at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he obtained a diploma and LLB. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981 and began his legal career in 1982 as a magistrate. Over the years, he rose through the judiciary, becoming a High Court judge in 1992, a Justice of the Court of Appeal in 2007, and later a Supreme Court Justice in 2017.

In March 2019, he became the 17th Emir of Lafia following the death of his predecessor, Emir Isa Mustapha Agwai I. Since then, he has earned wide respect for his efforts in promoting peace and unity.

statement read:

"By selecting Emir Bage as Chancellor, Northwest University maintains its tradition of engaging credible and accomplished national figures to guide the institution in ceremonial and advisory roles."

Governor Yusuf described the appointment as a strategic step to reinforce the university’s values.

"Bringing in a former Supreme Court Justice and respected traditional leader aligns with our goals of academic excellence, ethical leadership, and national unity," he said.

He also praised the Emir’s record of fairness, wisdom, and community service, noting that these qualities will inspire students and staff alike.

The appointment letter was formally presented to the Emir at his palace in Lafia by the Chairman of the University Council, Professor Hafiz Abubakar, alongside the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa.