“O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?”
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is in mourning following the tragic and untimely passing of its Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, a dedicated administrator whose humility, kindness and commitment to service earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues across the university community.
His sudden departure has left the university community in deep sorrow and disbelief. It is the loss of not only a Principal Officer but also a gentle soul, a humble servant-leader and a consummate professional whose warmth, kindness and dedication touched the lives of many.
For those who knew Mallam Marafa, his humility was unmistakable. Despite occupying one of the most strategic positions in the university, he remained remarkably simple, accessible and respectful in his dealings with people. The office of Bursar never changed him. He wore the responsibilities of his office with dignity, yet remained the same warm and approachable man whom colleagues could engage with freely.
Ever cheerful and welcoming, Mallam Marafa had a way of making people feel comfortable in his presence. His smile was not merely an expression; it was part of the warmth he brought into his interactions. Whether dealing with senior officials, colleagues, junior staff or visitors, he treated people with courtesy, patience and genuine respect.
His appointment as Bursar in September 2022 was a fitting recognition of his competence, experience and commitment to service. He embraced the responsibility with diligence and a strong sense of duty, contributing meaningfully to the financial administration and advancement of the university.
The position of University Bursar did not elude him; rather, it seemed to find in him a man prepared for its demands. He brought professionalism, prudence, integrity and dedication to the office, while never allowing the authority attached to his position to overshadow the humanity that defined him.
Beyond the files, figures and official responsibilities associated with his office was a man who understood that leadership is ultimately about service. He listened. He encouraged. He supported. He related with people without unnecessary barriers and demonstrated, in his quiet way, that one could occupy a high office without losing the common touch.
A man of substance who did not need to make a show of his importance. A leader whose humility spoke louder than his position. A colleague whose kindness was genuine. A gentleman whose ever-present smile brightened many encounters.
His sudden passing is therefore a profound loss to NOUN. The university has lost a dedicated administrator, a trusted colleague and a principal officer whose contributions will remain part of its institutional story.
Yet, even in mourning, there is reason to be grateful: grateful that his path crossed ours; grateful for the years he gave to the service of the university; grateful for the lives he touched; and grateful for the memories that will remain long after the pain of this moment begins to ease.
It was no surprising therefore the caliber of people, the staffers, including those from the neighbouring organisations the management as well as the Chairman of the NOUN Governing Council, Mal. Isa Yuguda that attended the Janaza Ga’ib (Islamic funeral prayer in abstention), held at the university’s Central Mosque in Abuja.
To his family, relatives, friends, colleagues and all who mourn this painful loss, the National Open University of Nigeria extends its heartfelt condolences.
May the Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, reward his good deeds, grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus and give his family and the entire university community the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Death may have taken Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa from our midst, but it cannot take away the legacy of kindness, humility, professionalism and service he leaves behind.
The smile may have faded from our sight, but the warmth it brought to many hearts will not be forgotten.
Farewell, gentle soul.
Farewell, humble servant-leader.
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