This morning, I came across yet another troubling publication by one online newspaper carrying the sensational headline: “MAAUN under scrutiny as Kano Anti-Graft Agency suspends payment of 750,000 graduation fee.”
How the platform arrived at such a misleading and damaging headline remains a mystery—though not entirely surprising. For years, certain media outlets have demonstrated a consistent pattern of undermining initiatives that contribute positively to Kano’s development. Their latest attempt to drag Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) into manufactured controversy is simply a continuation of this unfortunate tradition.
A fundamental question must be asked: Is MAAUN the only private university in Kano State? Why is it that despite its numerous achievements, milestones, and recognitions, some media platforms have never published anything positive about the institution?
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In 2024 and 2025, MAAUN was ranked 2nd and 1st respectively on the AdScientific Index—an accomplishment any responsible media organization should acknowledge and celebrate. Yet these remarkable feats were conveniently ignored.
Beyond academic rankings, MAAUN has brought tremendous socio-economic value to the Hotoro community and Kano State at large. Since the commencement of academic activities in 2021, the university has:
Generated employment opportunities for hundreds of Kano indigene.
Stimulated local businesses and enhanced community livelihoods.
Provided world-class education to thousands of students.
Today, MAAUN arguably has the highest student population among private universities in the state—evidence of its strong academic appeal and the public’s growing trust.
Given these facts, the sensationalism displayed in the recent headline—suggesting that MAAUN is “under scrutiny” as though it is on trial—reflects poor journalism and violates basic ethical principles of truth and fairness. Even more surprising is the insinuation that the Public Complaints Commission has the authority to halt fee collection in a private university established by a private individual with no political baggage.
From available records, over 99.8% of graduating students have already completed their payments. It becomes clear, therefore, that a very small group of individuals may be leveraging the media to smear the image of the institution.
One must then ask: Why is someone who is not even an indigene of Kano working tirelessly to undermine the investment and vision of a distinguished Kano son—while many watch in silence? This is unacceptable, especially when other reputable media platforms have reported the matter objectively and responsibly.
Attempts to discredit MAAUN are destined to fail. Facts are stubborn, and the accomplishments of the university speak louder than any propaganda.
MAAUN is an asset to Kano State—an institution established with the sincere intention to uplift education, empower youth, and contribute to the state’s long-term development. Its students will continue to excel in all fields of human endeavor, and no amount of media blackmail can erase its impact.
The university deserves protection, not persecution. It deserves recognition, not unwarranted suspicion. And it deserves fair reporting, not politically motivated witch-hunting.
MAAUN has come to stay—for a better Kano, a stronger Nigeria, and a brighter future for its students.