Kano Emir Sanusi Pursues Law Degree After Earning PhD at 63

At 63, most people might be thinking about slowing down. Not Lamido Sanusi, the Emir of Kano, who just enrolled in law school.

Northwest University in Kano officially admitted Sanusi to pursue a Bachelor of Laws degree, specializing in both Common and Sharia Law. He'll enter as a second-year student in the 2024/2025 academic session through the school's direct entry program.

The admission letter, delivered to the Kano Emirate Council, confirmed that Sanusi met all special admission requirements. The university asked the monarch to follow standard student regulations throughout his studies, just like any other student.

This latest educational journey adds another chapter to an already impressive academic career. Sanusi earned his undergraduate degree in Economics from Ahmadu Bello University in 1981, followed by a master's degree two years later.

After decades leading Nigeria's Central Bank and serving as Emir, Sanusi returned to university. In 2024, he completed a PhD in Islamic Law from SOAS University of London, focusing on social reform and family law.

Why This Inspires

Sanusi's decision to become a student again sends a powerful message about lifelong learning. Despite holding one of Nigeria's most prestigious traditional leadership positions, he's willing to sit in classrooms, take exams, and meet the same requirements as students decades younger.

His choice also reflects a commitment to deepening his understanding of the legal systems that govern his community. By studying both Common and Sharia Law, he's positioning himself to better serve and guide his people through complex legal and social issues.

The combination of his economics background, Islamic law expertise, and now legal training creates a unique perspective that bridges traditional leadership with modern governance.

In a world that often tells us we're too old to start fresh, the Emir of Kano just enrolled in law school and reminded us that curiosity has no age limit.