Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has appointed Professor Terhemba Shija as the new Director of the Institute of Governance and Development Studies.
The appointment was announced through an internal memo dated June 24, 2025, signed by University Registrar Dr. Bala I. Ahmed, following approval by Vice-Chancellor Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman.
Two-Year Renewable Term
Professor Shija will serve a renewable two-year term from June 24, 2025, to June 23, 2027, in the newly assigned role. The appointment places him in a direct reporting relationship with the Vice-Chancellor as he assumes leadership of the specialised institute.
According to the official memo, Professor Shija is expected to “provide effective and efficient academic and administrative leadership that will further enhance sound academic policies and programmes for the university.”
Strategic Leadership Role
The Institute of Governance and Development Studies plays a crucial role in fostering sound governance and development-oriented scholarship within the university system. Professor Shija’s appointment is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen research capabilities, policy formulation, and intellectual engagement in these critical areas.
The new director brings academic expertise from the Department of English, where he has established himself as a distinguished scholar before taking on this administrative leadership position.
University Community Response
The appointment has been well received within the university community, with colleagues and stakeholders extending congratulations to Professor Shija as he transitions into this critical leadership role.
The position requires balancing academic excellence with administrative efficiency, as the Institute continues to advance its mission in governance and development studies, research and programming.
Institutional Development
This leadership change reflects Nasarawa State University’s continued commitment to strengthening its academic institutes and research capabilities. The Institute of Governance and Development Studies is a key centre for policy research and academic inquiry into governance issues affecting Nigeria and the broader West African region.
Professor Shija’s appointment is expected to bring fresh perspectives and enhanced leadership to the Institute’s ongoing programmes and future governance and development studies initiatives.
His articles are available on AkweyaTV and can be found here and also at this link.
He takes over from Prof. Andrew Zamani, who nurtured many PhD graduates.
The appointment takes effect immediately, with Professor Shija beginning his directorial duties as of June 24, 2025.
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