The University of Jos (UNIJOS) has appointed Professor Patricia Mamko Lar as its 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor, making her the first woman to lead the institution since its establishment. UNIJOS appoints first female Vice-Chancellor following the end of Professor Tanko Ishaya’s tenure.
The appointment was announced on Thursday, November 12, 2026, by Senator Grace Folashade Bent, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council.
Bent announced Lar’s appointment during a special meeting of the university’s 15th Governing Council.
According to a statement issued by Emmanuel Madugu, Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations, the Pro-Chancellor formally presented the appointment letter to Lar.
She also urged the new Vice-Chancellor to remain focused and committed to her responsibilities.
Lar succeeds Professor Tanko Ishaya, whose tenure as Vice-Chancellor is approaching its end. Her appointment marks a historic moment for the University of Jos, as she becomes the first woman to occupy the institution’s highest academic leadership position.
The development also makes her the 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor since the university was established.
With the appointment, UNIJOS appoints first female Vice-Chancellor, breaking a long-standing gender barrier in its leadership history.
Lar is expected to assume responsibility for the university’s administration and academic direction as she prepares to succeed Ishaya.
The university’s Governing Council announced the appointment but did not provide further details about the transition arrangements in the statement.
