The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, has assured students of the University’s commitment to improving welfare and addressing infrastructural challenges across hostels.
The Vice-Chancellor gave the assurance during an interactive meeting with the Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive and Hostel Governors, led by the SUG President, Ridwan Abubakar, on Tuesday, 12th May, 2026.
Prof. Usman commended the student leadership at both SUG and hostel levels for their conduct, maturity and perseverance.
He noted that his previous experiences as Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, and as Dean of Students’ Affairs at the then Kogi State University, Anyigba now Prince Abubakar Audu University have equipped him with a deep understanding of student-related issues.
Prof. Usman revealed that although the University had about 13 boreholes, only one was functional as of the time of his assumption of office.
He, however, stated that proactive measures had since been taken to address the situation, including the drilling of a new borehole to meet the immediate needs of the students, the rehabilitation of five previously non-functional boreholes, and the repair of water tankers to ensure consistent water supply.
“My responsibility is to identify and address issues,” he said, urging students to always channel their concerns through appropriate communication channels for prompt attention.
Describing himself as a comrade, the Vice-Chancellor reassured students of ongoing plans for the comprehensive renovation of the hostels to improve the living conditions of students.
He charged students to make prudent use of available facilities and reiterated Management’s policy of non-interference in the internal administration of student bodies.
Prof. Usman also appealed for unity and collaboration among students, urging them to support the University Management and the State Government in efforts to provide sustainable solutions to campus challenges.
He further advised students to remain security conscious and to shun social vices and criminal activities.
The Vice-Chancellor reiterated Management’s stance on the ban on final-year celebrations within the University community, emphasizing the need to maintain order and discipline.
In his usual magnanimity, he announced that Hostel Governors would no longer be required to pay for accommodation and directed that refunds would be made to those currently serving.
Earlier, speaking on behalf of the students, the SUG President appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for granting them the opportunity to interface with him.
He explained that the meeting was aimed at bringing to the attention of the Vice-Chancellor key challenges affecting students in the hostels, particularly issues relating to toilet blockage and sanitation.
He specifically mentioned the recurring problem of blocked water closets (WC), and suggested the provision of designated pits for proper waste disposal to mitigate the situation.
In their separate remarks, the Hostel Governors, speaking in turns, expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for the opportunity and privileges accorded them.
They also pledged to remain worthy ambassadors of the University and to support Management’s efforts in maintaining order and improving the living conditions of students within the hostels.
The meeting had in attendance the Bursar, Mr Ahmed Hudu Abdulsalami; the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Professor Adetunji Sunday Adegoke; and the Director of Works, Engineer Shaibu Abutu Ukwenya.
