Prof. William Barnabas Qurix — Biography, Education, Career, Age, Wife

Professor William Barnabas Qurix is a celebrated Nigerian academic whose career has spanned over decades in education, architecture, and leadership. As a Professor and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Qurix has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s educational system.

He has been instrumental in leading institutions of higher learning, expanding educational infrastructure, and fostering academic excellence.

Born on November 4, 1961, in Kaura Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria, he is known for his contributions to both architecture and education.

This article provides a deep dive into his life, achievements, and leadership in academia.

Early Life and Education

Professor Qurix’s academic journey began in Kaduna State, where he grew up and laid the foundation for his future career. His early education was grounded in a belief in the value of knowledge and intellectual rigor. This foundation led him to pursue higher education with a particular interest in architecture.

Higher Education

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Architecture: Professor Qurix earned his undergraduate degree in 1985 from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, one of Nigeria’s leading universities.
• Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Architecture: Continuing at ABU, he completed his M.Sc. in 1987, honing his skills in architectural design and urban development.
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Architecture: In 1997, Professor Qurix achieved his Ph.D. from ABU, Zaria, with a dissertation focused on the impact of modern architectural principles on Nigerian urban environments.
• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Law and Diplomacy: His intellectual curiosity didn’t stop with architecture. In 2001, Professor Qurix obtained an A. in Law and Diplomacy from the University of Jos (UNIJOS), expanding his academic knowledge beyond architecture to include law, politics, and diplomacy.

Career Journey

Professor Qurix’s career is a rich tapestry of academic achievements, professional practice, and leadership. He has served in various prestigious positions, guiding universities, shaping academic programs, and leading Nigeria’s higher education sector toward growth and modernization.

Early Career

• Lecturer at ABU: Professor Qurix began his career as a part-time lecturer in the Department of Architecture at ABU, Zaria in 1985. This was just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to education. From Lecturer to Professor, he spent years guiding students, conducting research, and contributing to the academic community.
• National Youth Service Corps (NYSC): During his NYSC year, he worked as an architect at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), where he gained hands-on experience in urban planning and architectural design.

Leadership Roles:

• Vice-Chancellor, Kaduna State University (KASU): Professor Qurix became the Vice-Chancellor of KASU in 2012, and his tenure was marked by significant improvements in academic standards, research output, and infrastructure development. He served as Vice-Chancellor until 2016, playing a vital role in shaping the university’s future.
• Vice-Chancellor, Bingham University: After his success at KASU, Professor Qurix took on the role of Vice-Chancellor at Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, from 2018-2024. His tenure at Bingham University was focused on enhancing research programs, faculty development, and student welfare.
• Vice-Chancellor, FUASK: In 2025, Professor Qurix was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia (FUASK). As a pioneer Vice-Chancellor, he is responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the university, promoting applied sciences education, and ensuring that FUASK becomes a leading institution in Nigeria.

Personal Life and Family

Professor Qurix is a family man who has balanced his high-profile academic career with his personal life. He is married to a woman who remains largely out of the public eye, although she has supported him throughout his professional journey. They have children, but these details haven’t been publicly disclosed (we’ll update this post once we get any public details about his wife and family).

More about his family, Professor Qurix is deeply involved in his community and maintains a strong Christian faith, which he often credits as a guiding principle in both his personal and professional life.

Awards and Honors

Professor Qurix’s contributions to academia and his community have been widely recognized. Among his many honors, the most notable is being awarded the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), one of Nigeria’s highest national awards. This honor is a testament to his contributions to education, architecture, and public service in Nigeria.

Legacy and Contributions

Professor Qurix is known for his tireless work in improving the Nigerian higher education system. Through his leadership at Kaduna State University, Bingham University, and FUASK, he has impacted thousands of students and faculty members, pushing for more rigorous academic standards and greater access to education.

His architectural background has also informed his approach to building better educational facilities and fostering an environment conducive to learning. His legacy extends beyond just the institutions he’s led; it includes the future generations of Nigerians he has helped educate and mentor.

In Summary

Professor William Barnabas Qurix stands as a beacon of excellence in Nigeria’s academic and professional spheres. His work as a Professor, Vice-Chancellor, and architect has influenced numerous educational reforms and led to the development of several institutions. Though he remains somewhat private about his personal life, his public contributions to education and leadership are immeasurable.

As the Vice-Chancellor of FUASK, Professor Qurix continues to shape the future of Nigerian education, pushing for innovation, inclusivity, and academic rigor. His story is a testament to the power of education, hard work, and dedication in shaping the future of a nation.