​UI Makes History: Dr. Mariam Adetoun Zakariyyah Named First Female Bursar

​IBADAN — In a landmark decision that resonates with the shifting tides of leadership in Nigeria’s premier tertiary institutions, the University of Ibadan (UI) has appointed Dr. Mariam Adetoun Zakariyyah as its substantive Bursar. This historic appointment marks the first time a woman has held the position in the university’s 78-year history, signaling a new chapter for the institution’s financial administration.

​Dr. Zakariyyah, a seasoned accountant and distinguished academic, steps into the role with an extensive background in treasury management and fiscal policy. Her ascension to the office is the culmination of a dedicated career within the university’s Bursary Department, where she previously served as a Deputy Bursar in the Treasury Unit.

​A Legacy of Excellence

Born and raised in the Abadina community within the University of Ibadan, Dr. Zakariyyah’s journey is deeply intertwined with the institution. She is the daughter of the late Alhaji Adegbite, a dedicated former staff member of the university. Her academic foundation was built at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where she emerged as the best Higher National Diploma (HND) student in Accounting—a testament to the analytical rigor she brings to her current responsibilities.

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​She furthered her intellectual pursuits with an MBA, a Master’s degree in Economics, and a doctorate in Accounting, cementing her reputation as both a practitioner and a scholar. As a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), she brings a wealth of professional oversight to the role of Chief Finance Officer.

​Leadership and Vision

Beyond the confines of the university, Dr. Zakariyyah is widely respected for her contributions to professional and religious associations. She currently serves as the National Financial Secretary for Criterion, a prominent organization dedicated to supporting Muslim women in business and the professions. Colleagues describe her as a leader shaped by patience, confidence, and a steadfast commitment to integrity.

​Her appointment arrives at a pivotal time for the University of Ibadan, as the institution continues to navigate the complexities of modern financial management in the Nigerian educational sector. As the 10th substantive Bursar, she is expected to prioritize strategic financial planning, policy development, and the modernization of the university’s fiscal operations.

​Dr. Zakariyyah is married to Dr. Nurai Zakariyyah, and they are blessed with children. Her tenure is widely seen as a significant milestone, breaking the “glass ceiling” in the administration of Nigeria’s oldest university and setting a new precedent for merit-based advancement in academia.