Zakariya Baba Hardawa
The rise of Professor Sani Usman Kunya to the position of Ag. Vice Chancellor of ATBU, is an extraordinary story of grit, tenacity, and academic excellence. Born in the village of Tilden Fulani, he began his journey in pursuit of both Islamic and Western education. He eventually enrolled at the prestigious University of Jos to earn his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD in Building and Construction Management.
Prof. Kunya’s professional career began at the Plateau State Housing Corporation, where his talents and hard work quickly saw him rise to the rank of Construction Project Engineer. In 1995, he made the transition to academia, rose through cadres to the exalted rank of professor at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi. Over the years, he has mentored countless students, and is affectionately known for his kindness and compassion towards them.
Indeed, Professor Kunya’s leadership style is defined by a unique blend of simplicity, approachability, and strength. Despite his impressive academic and professional achievements, he remains humble and down-to-earth, fostering a warm and supportive environment for those around him. His kind and compassionate demeanor, which earned him the endearing respect and makes him an excellent mentor and role model for students, staff, and faculty alike. This combination of qualities – simplicity, strength, and compassion – is a rare and valuable attribute in a leader, and one that Prof. Kunya embodied with grace and humility.
Prof.Kunya’s wealth of experience and commitment to academic excellence made him the obvious choice for the role of Ag. Vice Chancellor of the University.
As a registered builder, a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Building, with multiple professional affiliations to his credit, and his track records of previous appointments held, Prof. Kunya is poised to lead ATBU to greater heights, infusing the institution with his deep knowledge, experience and passion for excellence.
His personal life is just as exemplary, with a beautiful marriage spanning 29 years, with children.
Kunya’s recent appointment as the Acting Vice Chancellor of ATBU is a significant milestone, not only for him, but also for the institution. With his wealth of experience, commitment to excellence, and exceptional leadership qualities, Prof. Kunya is poised to steer ATBU towards greater heights of academic achievement and community service. The university is indeed fortunate to have a leader of his caliber at the helm, and the future looks bright with Prof. Kunya leading the way.
It is with great admiration and respect that, I wish him success, and hope that his tenure will be filled with many more triumphs and accomplishments on behalf of family, friends and co students. May Allah continue to guide Prof. Kunya through his journey as Ag.Vice Chancellor of ATBU, and may his leadership bring about a new era of prosperity, progress, and academic achievement for the university and its students.
Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Senate of the University for recognizing Prof. Sani Usman Kunya’s outstanding qualities and abilities, leading to his impressive landslide victory in the recent election. It is indeed a testament to the commitment of the university community in selecting the most suitable candidate for this important position.
Hardawa is a Lecturer from the Department of Science and Technology Education, Bayero University, Kano
