Alhaji Yakubu Iddrisu, the Registrar of Tamale Technical University (TaTU), has been enskinned as the Chief of the Shigu Traditional Community, under the Sagnarigu Traditional Area in northern Ghana. The coronation, presided over by the Paramount Chief of Sagnarigu, Sagnar Naa Ambassador Yakubu Abdulai, bestowed upon him the title of “Shi-Naa.” This appointment marks a significant milestone in Alhaji Iddrisu’s career, adding a prominent traditional leadership role to his already distinguished professional achievements. The ceremony, which took place on June 2, 2025, was attended by members of both the Sagnarigu and Shigu Traditional Councils, signifying the importance of the occasion and the widespread support for the new Shi-Naa. The presentation of the traditional “cola of Sagnarigu Shi-Naa” by Sagnar Naa Bapri formalized the endorsement and solidified Alhaji Iddrisu’s installation, filling the vacancy in the Shigu chieftaincy.
Shi-Naa Alhaji Yakubu Iddrisu brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership to his new role. Since 2019, he has served as the Registrar of TaTU, a position he assumed after confirmation by the university’s Governing Council. He played a pivotal role in the institution’s transition from Tamale Polytechnic to a full-fledged Technical University, becoming its first Registrar in this new capacity. His tenure has been marked by significant contributions to the university’s growth and development, fostering a strong administrative foundation and facilitating effective policy implementation. This experience in managing a complex organization will undoubtedly serve him well in his new capacity as a traditional leader.
During his acceptance speech, Shi-Naa Alhaji Yakubu Iddrisu expressed profound gratitude to both the Sagnarigu and Shigu Traditional Councils for the honor bestowed upon him. He pledged to lead with inclusivity and dedication, emphasizing collaboration with various stakeholders within the community, including chiefs, elders, religious leaders, women’s groups, and youth groups. His vision for the Shigu Traditional Area centers on fostering peace, harmony, tranquility, and development. He underscored the importance of collective effort in achieving these goals, calling upon all members of the community to contribute to the area’s progress and attractiveness for investment.
Shi-Naa’s acceptance speech also reflected his deep understanding of administrative processes and his commitment to effective governance. He highlighted his experience at TaTU, where he has overseen the university’s overall operations and played a leading role in its transformation. He emphasized his familiarity with committee and board systems, as well as his focus on ensuring good information flow and robust policy formulation and implementation. This experience, he asserted, will be invaluable in his role as Shi-Naa, enabling him to lead effectively and address the needs of the Shigu community. He reiterated his commitment to open communication and a non-discriminatory approach to leadership, ensuring that all members of the community feel heard and valued.
Furthermore, Shi-Naa Alhaji Yakubu Iddrisu acknowledged his long-standing support for university leadership, highlighting his role in assisting Rectors and Vice-Chancellors in realizing their visions for the institution’s development. This collaborative approach and his dedication to supporting institutional growth further demonstrate his leadership qualities and his commitment to serving others. The presence of TaTU management and staff at the enskinment ceremony underscored the university’s support for their Registrar in his new role. They praised the Shigu community and its traditional council for their trust in Shi-Naa and pledged their full support as he embarks on this new chapter of leadership and community development.
Shi-Naa Alhaji Yakubu Iddrisu’s academic and professional background provides a strong foundation for his chieftaincy. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Ghana, a Master of Science in Organizational Development from the University for Development Studies (UDS), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Organizational Development from the University of Cape Coast. His Bachelor of Arts degree also comes from the University of Ghana, and he completed his GCE A’ Level education at Tamale Secondary School. He is a full member of the Chartered Institute of Administrators and Management Consultants, Ghana, holding the Chartered Professional Administrator (ChPA) designation. His international credentials include an Executive Mastery in Organizational Development and Appreciative Leadership (EMODAL) from Florida, USA, and certification as an Organization Development Consultant (ODCC). This impressive academic portfolio, combined with his extensive experience in university administration, equips him with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of traditional leadership and drive positive change within the Shigu Traditional Area.
