By Victoria Attah, Abuja
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has appointed Professor Samaila Mande as Director of its Business School, reinforcing efforts to strengthen postgraduate business education and improve alignment with industry needs.
The development was announced by the Academy of Management Nigeria, where Mande currently serves as President, placing him at the forefront of one of the university’s specialised academic arms.
Mande, a professor of marketing and strategic management, is regarded for his contributions to teaching, research, and institutional development. His appointment is expected to influence the strategic direction of the Business School as it responds to shifting demands in Nigeria’s business and education sectors.
While university officials describe the decision as part of ongoing reforms within the institution, it also points to a broader effort to reposition the Business School as a competitive centre for advanced professional studies, with a focus on practical relevance and global competitiveness.
In his new role, Mande will oversee the development and delivery of professional postgraduate programmes, including master’s and doctoral degrees, while strengthening engagement with industry stakeholders. He is also expected to drive research initiatives and expand the adoption of flexible, technology-enabled learning models.
The NOUN Business School provides postgraduate training tailored for professionals and entrepreneurs, with an emphasis on accessibility and flexible learning. The model has continued to attract candidates seeking to combine academic advancement with career growth.
Academic observers say the appointment reflects a wider shift in Nigeria’s higher education landscape, where institutions are under increasing pressure to produce graduates equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills suited to the labour market.
