History was made in August 2025 with the approval of Nigeria’s first female-only university, Tazkiyah University. The university was among nine new private institutions approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
As Nigeria’s first university exclusively for women, it reflects a growing commitment to creating spaces with values-driven education where women can learn, lead, and thrive without limitations.
Here are some things to know about the university.
1. Its Name Signifies Its Moral Mission
“Tazkiyah” means purification, growth, and ethical self-development, which reflects the institution’s dedication to producing not just skilled graduates but morally grounded leaders.
2. Its First Academic Session Began in January 2026
Tazkiyah University’s first academic session began in January 2026, with the institution recording an initial intake of around 250 students.
3. Professor Ibrahim Maqari Is The Founder
Professor Ibrahim Maqari, a respected Islamic scholar and one of the Imams of the National Mosque in Abuja, is the founder of the university. His vision is to empower women academically and morally, creating an environment where female students can thrive without compromise.
4. It is Located in Zaria, Kaduna State
The university’s initial academic activities are taking place in Zaria, Kaduna State, at a temporary site on Chikaji Road. Plans are underway to shift to a permanent campus in Kaduna city as the institution grows.
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5. Professor Bilikis Aminu Shinkafi is the pioneer VC of the institution
In November 2025, Professor (Mrs.) Bilkisu Aminu Shinkafi was appointed as the Vice Chancellor, making her the founding academic leader of Tazkiyah University. She brings decades of experience in academia and administration, and her leadership is seen as key to shaping the university’s direction.
6. Not Religion-Exclusive
Although founded by a Muslim scholar and inspired by values-based education, the university’s admissions are not restricted to Muslim students, as women of all faiths (and even those without religious affiliation) are welcome if they abide by the rules and culture of the campus.
7. Focus on Breaking Gender Barriers in STEM
Tazkiyah University prides itself on a strong focus on offering STEM-related courses, thereby breaking long-standing gender barriers. It emphasizes technical and science disciplines, offering degrees such as cybersecurity, software engineering, petroleum chemistry, and computer science, where women have historically been underrepresented in Nigeria.
8. All-Female Staffing Vision
The founder stated that the preference will be for an all-female academic staff, making it the first of its kind in the country and wider Sub-Saharan Africa.