UniJos, Our UniJos at 50
By Hosanna Ayas
In all that is fair and right, God bless our UniJos
Last verse, last stanza, UniJos Anthem
The Beginning
Gilbert Onuaguluchi, Professor and Head of the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the University of Nigeria, Enugu campus, was transferred to the newly created University of Jos, Jos, the tin city and ‘Europe’ of Africa as it is often referred to.
Taking over from the Principal of the erstwhile University of Ibadan, Jos campus, Dr. Emmanuel Ayandele, the Professor of Medicine hailed from Awgu, Enugu State, one of the foundation students of the then University College Ibadan and having studied in several reputable institutions including the University of Glasgow, Scotland. No better person could have been sent to lay a firm foundation for the just established University.
To model it after the parent University of Ibadan known for excellence (the same UI where Onuaguluchi gained intellectual stamina), he did the best he knew to do. Posterity judges him right every now and then because pioneering isn’t a small feat; having to start with limited resources, not-so-well-equipped laboratories, congested lecture halls, a small workforce, and the burden that comes with starting.
A Line of Visionaries
Professor Emmanuel U. Emovon from the University of Ibadan came next. With rich administrative experience, having served as Head of Chemistry Department at UI, the Professor of Chemistry took over from the Professor of Medicine.
Emovon founded the College of Health Sciences and created some departments among many achievements. He did his very best, but it was only a matter of time before Professor Ochapa C. Onazi emerged as his successor.
The Benue-origin Professor of Agriculture Economics surprised many by becoming VC, as he was not seen as a top contender. At ABU Zaria, Onazi was happily teaching when he was called to become the pioneer Provost of FUT Makurdi (then University of Jos, Makurdi campus, now J.S. Tarka University).
When he contested for the top seat of the “Home” University of Jos, fate smiled he won mysteriously. He led until October 1989 when Professor Mallam Para Mallum of Plateau State succeeded him.
At last, UniJos had an indigenous VC! The people rejoiced.
The Plateau Sons
Professor Mallum ruled from 1989–1993 before Professor G.O.M. Tasie served in acting capacity (1993–1994). Then came **Professor Nenfort Gomwalk, another illustrious son of Plateau.
Initially at ABU Zaria, the renowned Professor of Microbiology returned home to contribute his quota to the University they clamoured for — alongside Ambassador Yahaya Kwande and SP Joseph Gomwalk.
Prof. Gomwalk ensured relocation of some departments from Bauchi Road (main campus) to Naraguta campus (Permanent Site) began in earnest.
By 1999, he handed over to Professor Monday Y. Mangvwat, who served first in acting capacity, then substantive VC from 2001 to 2006.
The Growth Years
Next came Professor Sonni Tyoden, globally known Professor of Political Science. Before him, Professor Celestine Onwuliri (Imo State, Parasitology) acted as VC.
Tragically, Prof. Onwuliri later died in the 2012 Dana Air mishap in Lagos (God rest his soul).
Under Tyoden, UniJos became the “bride” of universities in Nigeria, one of the most applied institutions. He later became Deputy Governor of Plateau State.
After him, Professor Hayward Mafuyai (Public Health Entomology, Zoology Dept.) took over from June 2011–2015. He is currently Acting Pro-Chancellor of Karl Kumm University, Vom.
Mai-Taimako Era
The baton then went to Professor Seddi Sebastian Maimako, a distinguished Professor of Accounting (2016–2021).
Loved by students and staff alike, he was nicknamed “Mai-Taimako”. The Faculty of Management Sciences was named after him: *“Professor Seddi Sebastian Maimako Faculty of Management Science.”
Many wished his tenure could last forever, but as the saying goes: “if wishes were horses, beggars would ride.”
The Present Leadership
After Maimako, Professor Gray Gozie Ejikeme (Psychology) acted as VC for six months, before handing over to Professor Tanko Ishaya an insider, alumnus, and ICT pioneer.
Tanko graduated in 1992 during Prof. Mallam Para Mallum’s tenure. He later became ICT Director, Pioneer HOD of Computer Science, DVC Academics, and finally the VC of his alma mater.
50 Years of Legacy
50 whole years; not 50 days, not 50 hours nor 50 minutes.
From the first Gilbert Onuaguluchi to the present Tanko Ishaya, human rights activist and UJ Alumni President Dr. Gad Peter fittingly named them “Keepers of the Dream.”
In his poem “Guardians of Legacy”, he wrote:
“In the beginning, there was vision.
And from that vision rose men who carried it with steady hands and steadfast hearts.
Vice-Chancellors, more than administrators, they were keepers of the dream…
For fifty years, they have been the silent architects of our tomorrow,
laying stones of knowledge, sacrifice, and hope.”
The Founding Vision
When General Yakubu Gowon directed in 1975 that new universities (Jos, Maiduguri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Ilorin, Sokoto) be established, he had no idea what he was birthing.
UniJos, located in the serene capital of Plateau State, has since produced graduates of high standing across Nigeria and beyond. With 12 faculties, 7 centres, and over 40 departments, its alumni network stretches across the nation.
Remembering the Fallen
We remember those who clamoured for UniJos’ creation but have fallen asleep.
We remember staff and students who have passed.
We remember past VCs who have gone home to rest:
Professors Gilbert Onuaguluchi, E.U. Emovon, O.C. Onazi, Celestine Onwuliri, Sonni Tyoden, and Gray Ejikeme.
May their souls rest in peace. Ameen.
The Anthem
I would love to end this article with the University Anthem, a beautiful emblem of the University: a creed, a prayer, and a heartfelt wish.
UniJos, Our UniJos, founded in the Lord’s glory**
Fountain of knowledge, discipline and dedication.
Building leaders in earnest, lighting up the nation’s path
With knowledge genuine and pure, in character and in learning.
UniJos, our UniJos, setting the pace in leadership and in learning**
In the service of God and Man, to humanity’s delight and development.
God is our strength, growth and excellence is our goal.
In all that is fair and right, God bless our UniJos.
In all that is fair and right, Dear God, Bless our UniJos.
It’s a beautiful day, Ladies and Gentlemen
25th August 2025
