Sokoto State University (SSU) is a public institution of higher learning located in Sokoto, the capital of Sokoto State, Nigeria. It was established in 2009 under the administration of Governor Aliyu Wamakko to expand access to quality education and contribute to the intellectual and socio-economic development of the state and the nation at large. The university was created to provide a platform for academic excellence, research, and innovation, while also addressing the educational needs of the growing population in Sokoto State.
The university operates under the motto "?? ??? ???? ???!" in Arabic, which translates to "It all begins here!" in English. SSU is a state-owned institution committed to producing graduates who are competitive both locally and globally. The chancellor of the university is Alhaji Nuhu Sanusi, the Emir of Dutse. Since its establishment, the university has had three vice-chancellors: Prof. Nuhu Yaqub (2013–2017), Prof. Sani Muhammad Dangogo (2017–2022), and Prof. Bashir Garba (MFR), who has been serving since 2022.
Located in an urban setting within Sokoto, SSU is affiliated with the National Universities Commission (NUC) and continues to grow in academic offerings and research initiatives. More information about the university can be accessed on its official website, ssu.edu.ng.
##HISTORY AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SOKOTO STATE UNIVERSITY
The area that constitutes the present day Sokoto State predates the creation of Nigeria. The Sokoto Caliphate emerged out of the Songhai Empire, the Kebbi Kingdom of Muhammad Kotal Kanta, the Kingdom of Zamfara, and the Gobir Kingdom. The Area witnessed the intermingling of people since the stone-age period as recorded by Basil Davidson and Garba Nadama in their scholarship. However, the ancient civilization that existed as early as 500AD and up to 1500AD was one of acquiring Islamic Knowledge and History and what brought about the appearance of the great Kingdom of Kanta of Kebbi and subsequent Hausa-City states and, later, the Sokoto Caliphate.
The idea to set up the Sokoto State University was being nurtured a long time ago by successive governments. This idea, however, came to fruition only in 2009 when His Excellency, the former Executive Governor of Sokoto State Alhaji (Dr) Aliyu Magatakarda Wammako, (Sarkin Yamman Sokoto) signed the law establishing the institution. In August 2013, the Academic Programmes took off in the three Faculties; Arts and Social Sciences, Education and Science. The University campus was commissioned on 29th October, 2013 by former Head of State, Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, under the leadership of the former Executive Governor Alhaji (Dr) Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, with the support of the able leadership of the then Vice Chancellor, Professor Nuhu O. Yaqub, OFR. Currently, the University offers 62 Academic programmes across the Five Faculties. Plans are underway to launch more academic programmes as the University enters its second phase of infrastructural and academic developments.
The University is currently headed by an Ag. Vice-Chancellor, Prof. M. B. Yerima, as the fourth Vice-Chancellor, who was appointed by the present Visitor, His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, FCNA Governor of Sokoto State. The University has Two (5) research centres. They are:
Centre for the Study of the Sokoto Caliphate
Research and Development Centre of Excellence
Center for Mathematics Studies
Enterprenuership Center
Equipment and Maintenance Center
In addition, preparations have been concluded for the commencement of new Undergraduate and Postgraduate programmes. The school of Postgraduate Studies has commenced academic activities in 2021/2022 academic session.
VISION: To become a world class Institution that produces globally competitive graduates who can advance economic development and who are prepared to meet the challenges of their time.
MISSION: The mission of the Sokoto State University is to;
Pursue excellence in research, teaching and community service;
Be dedicated to having quality leadership, sound management of all resources and high degree of integrity and accountability;
Strive to produce the best quality academic programmes to meet the needs of diverse students, and
Create an environment conducive for teaching, learning, and the actualization of human potential.
CORE VALUES: The core values of the University shall be:
Dedication to public good;
Fairness, social justice and equality;
Honesty and integrity;
Accountability and transparency;
Shared and democratic governance.
PHILOSOPHY: The philosophy of the University shall be geared towards: satisfaction of society’s demand for knowledge through teaching and research; upholding truth and social justice; rendering selfless services; promoting and preserving academic freedom and fundamental values of the society. By this, the needs and aspirations of the people of Sokoto State shall be a priority.
##OBJECTIVES OF THE UNIVERSITY
The objectives of the University shall be to:
Provide access to quality education in order to help individuals actualize and develop their potentials to the fullest;
Engage in research towards the advancement of Sokoto State in particular and the Nigerian nation in general;
Complement the efforts of the Federal Government in the training of high-level manpower in the country; Create and enhance access to University education to all indigenes of Sokoto State;
Advance human culture and improve human life through the development, and dissemination of knowledge;
Integrate the University with its community through continuing education courses;
Excel at using research and other scholarly endeavors towards providing better learning opportunities for all students to enable them, at graduation, use the knowledge gained for positive purposes;
Provide service to the people of Sokoto State that are products of the educational and research programmes of the University;
Participate in activities of national and international organizations which enhance cooperation, development and peace and;
Carry out other activities appropriate to a University of the highest standard
##Academic Structure and Faculties
Sokoto State University is structured to offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in multiple disciplines. The academic framework is designed to equip students with knowledge, skills, and practical experience.
##FACULTIES AND DEPARTMENTS
The university has expanded over the years, developing a strong academic foundation. It currently offers programs in various faculties, including:
##1. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
History and International Studies
English Language
Political Science
Economics
Sociology
##2. Faculty of Science
Biological Sciences
Chemistry
Mathematics and Computer Science
Physics
##3. Faculty of Education
Science Education
Arts and Social Science Education
Educational Foundations
The university continues to expand its academic offerings, with plans to introduce more faculties and programs to meet the growing educational demands of the region.
##INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES
Since its establishment, Sokoto State University has seen significant infrastructural development to support teaching, learning, and research. Some key facilities include:
Lecture Halls and Classrooms: Modern lecture halls equipped with teaching aids and digital resources.
Library: A well-stocked library with books, journals, and e-learning resources.
Laboratories: Science and computer laboratories for practical training.
Student Hostels: On-campus accommodation facilities for students.
Sports and Recreation: Facilities to promote student well-being and extracurricular activities.
##ADMISSION AND ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
The university follows a structured admission process for students seeking to enroll in various undergraduate programs. Admission requirements typically include:
A minimum number of credits in relevant subjects at the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).
A satisfactory score in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.
Post-UTME screening as required by the university.
The university follows the Nigerian university academic calendar, with a structured semester system comprising coursework, examinations, and research projects.
##PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATIONS
To strengthen its academic and research capabilities, Sokoto State University has entered into partnerships with national and international institutions. These collaborations focus on:
Research funding and innovation
Faculty and student exchange programs
Capacity-building initiatives
Community engagement projects
The university has also received support from governmental and non-governmental organizations in various academic and developmental projects.
##STUDENT LIFE AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Student life at Sokoto State University is vibrant, with opportunities for personal and professional development outside the classroom. The university encourages students to participate in:
Student Union Government (SUG) activities
Clubs and societies related to academics, culture, and sports
Leadership and entrepreneurship programs
Community service initiatives
These activities contribute to the holistic development of students, preparing them for life beyond the university.
Sokoto State University continues to make strides in delivering quality education, expanding its facilities, and fostering research excellence. With a strong leadership structure and a commitment to academic growth, the university remains a key institution in Sokoto State’s educational landscape.