By Patience Tarhemba
The University of Jos (UNIJOS), has appointed Professor Patricia Mamko Lar as its new Vice-Chancellor, making her the first woman to occupy the position since the institution was established.
Her appointment was announced on Thursday, November 12, 2026, by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the university’s Governing Council, Senator Grace Folashade Bent, during a special meeting of the 15th Governing Council.
Lar becomes the university’s 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor, succeeding Professor Tanko Ishaya, whose tenure is scheduled to end this month.
The appointment was confirmed in a statement issued by Emmanuel Madugu, Deputy Registrar for Information and Public Relations, on behalf of the Registrar and Secretary to Council.
According to the statement, Bent formally presented the appointment letter to Lar and urged her to remain committed to her responsibilities as she prepares to assume office.
Lar is a Professor of Medical Microbiology at the University of Jos, where she began her academic career as a Graduate Assistant in 1987. She subsequently rose through the academic ranks and attained professorial status in 2015.
Over the years, she has held several academic and administrative positions within the university, gaining experience in institutional management and academic leadership.
She also served as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, formerly the University of Abuja, for six months in 2025.
Her appointment followed a selection process involving several senior academics seeking to succeed Ishaya.
The candidates participated in a stakeholders’ engagement session, during which they outlined their visions for the university, addressing issues such as administration, research, funding, staff welfare and student development.
As she prepares to take over the leadership of the institution, Lar will be expected to address key areas, including academic advancement, infrastructure development, research funding and the welfare of staff and students.
Her emergence marks a historic milestone for the University of Jos, which, since its establishment, has never had a woman serve as its substantive Vice-Chancellor.
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