The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has formally commenced academic activities at Northwest University, Kano, after enrolling as a 200-level student in the institution’s Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) programme.
The monarch joined other undergraduates for lectures on Tuesday, drawing attention as he arrived on campus in a modest flowing black outfit and a white turban. Photographs shared on social media showed the Emir seated among fellow students in a lecture hall, engaging attentively with the class.
Sanusi’s presence follows the university’s recent decision to grant him special admission into its Common and Sharia Law programme, a move the institution said was based on his extensive experience in governance, economics, and public service.
According to officials of Northwest University, the special admission recognises the Emir’s long-standing intellectual contributions and his continued commitment to education and lifelong learning.
Established in 2012, Northwest University is one of two state-owned universities in Kano State and offers programmes across law, sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
Despite holding a doctorate and serving as a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi has consistently advocated intellectual development, social reform, and critical engagement with national issues. His decision to return to the classroom has been widely praised as a demonstration of humility and dedication to knowledge.
Observers note that Sanusi’s enrolment in a law programme aligns with his deep interest in legal, constitutional, and socio-religious matters, particularly in northern Nigeria, where the interaction between common law and Islamic law remains a subject of ongoing discourse.
The Emir, who has previously served as a traditional ruler, economist, banker, and public intellectual, is also known for his outspoken views on governance, accountability, education, and social justice. His return to formal study has sparked conversations across academic and public circles, with many describing it as an inspiration to younger Nigerians and public office holders.
Students at the university were said to have received the Emir warmly, with university sources confirming that he would participate fully in lectures, tutorials, and academic assessments like other students.
Sanusi’s move reinforces his long-held belief that education is a continuous process and that leadership is strengthened through learning, reflection, and engagement with ideas.
