***Promises Major Campus Upgrade
The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, has announced a fresh round of student welfare reforms, including free hostel accommodation for Hostel Governors, alongside renewed efforts to fix water supply and improve sanitation across the institution.
He made the announcement during an interactive meeting with the Students’ Union Government (SUG) leadership and Hostel Governors, led by SUG President Ridwan Abubakar, at the university campus.
Prof. Usman said student welfare remains a central focus of his administration, stressing that management is committed to creating a more comfortable and functional learning environment. He also praised student leaders for their maturity and constructive engagement, noting that dialogue remains key to solving campus challenges.
Recalling his experience as a former Dean of Students’ Affairs and Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, the Vice-Chancellor said he fully understands the realities students face and the urgency of addressing them.
He revealed that the university inherited a severe water crisis, with only one functional borehole out of about 13 at the time he assumed office. According to him, the situation has already improved through the drilling of a new borehole, rehabilitation of five faulty ones, and repair of water tankers to restore steady water supply to hostels.
“My responsibility is to identify problems and solve them,” he said, urging students to continue reporting issues through proper channels for quick action.
As part of new welfare measures, Prof. Usman announced that Hostel Governors will now enjoy free hostel accommodation. He added that those who had already paid would be refunded, describing the gesture as a way of supporting student leadership and reducing financial pressure.
He also disclosed plans for a full renovation of hostel facilities to improve living conditions, especially sanitation and comfort. He reaffirmed the university’s policy of non-interference in student union activities while encouraging responsible leadership among students.
On discipline, the Vice-Chancellor warned against social vices and urged students to remain security conscious and protect the image of the institution. He also restated the ban on final-year celebrations within the campus, citing the need to maintain order and discipline.
He appealed for unity among students and called for continued support for both the university management and the state government in addressing ongoing challenges.
Earlier, SUG President Ridwan Abubakar thanked the Vice-Chancellor for the engagement and raised concerns about hostel sanitation issues, including blocked toilets and poor waste management. He suggested better disposal systems to reduce recurring problems.
The meeting ended with renewed commitment from both management and student leaders to work together toward improving welfare and maintaining peace on campus.
