UNIJOS Breaks 50-Year Barrier, Appoints First Woman As Substantive Vice-Chancellor

The Governing Council of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) has appointed Professor Patricia Mamko Lar as the institution’s 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor, making her the first woman to hold the position since the university was established.

Lar will succeed Professor Tanko Ishaya, whose tenure as Vice-Chancellor is approaching its end.

The appointment was announced on Thursday, November 12, 2026, by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Senator Grace Folashade Bent, during a special meeting of the council.

The development was also confirmed in a statement issued by Emmanuel Madugu, Deputy Registrar in charge of Information and Public Relations, on behalf of the Registrar and Secretary to the Council.

According to information made available to Bush Radio Academy, Bent formally presented Lar with her appointment letter and urged her to remain committed and focused in carrying out the responsibilities of the office.

The appointment represents a significant milestone in the history of the University of Jos, as Lar becomes the first female academic to lead the institution as substantive Vice-Chancellor.

Her emergence also marks a new chapter in the university’s leadership, with expectations that she will build on the achievements of previous administrations and advance the institution’s academic and administrative development.