The President of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Prof. Mohammad Israr, has defended the institution's decision to close several private hostels, citing failure to comply with university regulations and concerns over student welfare.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Prof. Israr explained that the closure of affected hostels, including Al-Ansar Indabo, was necessary to protect students and maintain the university's standards.

"Despite issuing queries to the owners of the affected hostels, they failed to comply with our rules and regulations. We had no option but to take this appropriate action," he stated.

The university administration ordered the closure on Monday, highlighting several issues that prompted the decision, including inadequate basic amenities.

"Non-compliance resulted in several unwanted situations and activities within the hostel, including poor water and power supply. These issues pose a serious threat to the well-being of our students," Prof. Israr explained.

The MAAUN president emphasized that the university has built its reputation over 13 years and would not compromise on standards. He noted that such irregularities were not found in university-owned accommodations but rather in privately operated facilities that had been approved to house students.

"We have to protect the reputation that we built over the years. We stand by ethics to ensure good conduct and the welfare of our students," he affirmed.

All affected students have been directed to vacate the hostels immediately after completing their first-semester examinations. The university is reportedly working with relevant security agencies to ensure total compliance with the directive.

This is not the first time MAAUN has taken such action. The statement recalled that the university had previously shut down the Insktaf hostel due to reported criminal activities, including torture, physical assault, and injury, which posed serious security threats to students.

Prof. Israr maintained that the closure was "in the best interest of the parents and students," adding that private hostel development was "part of our founder's initiative to contribute more to the economy of the state, but not at the expense of safety and discipline."