Rita Odafe
The administration of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) in Kano has closed two privately managed female hostels.
The university’s leadership stated that this action was taken due to alleged immoral practices.
The hostels affected are Al-Ansar Indabo on UDB Road and Hotoro, both of which are within walking distance from the campus. Previously, these facilities had been approved for off-campus housing.
In his statement, Dr. Hamza Garba noted that the closure was based on reports detailing improper behavior, lack of essential resources such as water and electricity, incidents of violence among students, and unauthorized late-night activities.
“I have been instructed by the management to communicate to our valued parents and students that the university has revoked its endorsement of the Al-Ansar Indabo female hostels located at UDB Road and Hotoro,” he stated.
Students are required to vacate the premises immediately after completing the fall semester exams. The university has also warned that it will not be responsible for any issues arising from non-compliance and is collaborating with security personnel to implement the directive.
“Any misconduct would have likely occurred elsewhere,” commented one student.
Another student suggested that the closure might be tied more to inadequate facilities than ethical concerns.
The hostels had the capacity to accommodate around 500 female students, many of whom are from outside the Kano region. Some students mentioned that efforts are being made to move them to new hostels closer to campus, including one named in honor of a deceased student.
As it stands, MAAUN lacks on-campus residential facilities and depends on private developers for student accommodation.
