Students Call for Improved Power Supply at Maryam Abacha American University, Kano

 Students Call for Improved Power Supply at Maryam Abacha American University, Kano

By Fatima Ibrahim Alhassan

Matric No: [maaun/22/mco/0044]

Course: Online Journalism / Mass Communication

Students at MAAUN studying with alternative light sources due to persistent power outage.

Students of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, have raised concerns over persistent power outages on campus, calling on the university management to urgently address the issue to improve academic activities and student welfare.

The power interruptions, which have reportedly intensified in recent weeks, are affecting lecture schedules, online learning, hostel life, and business activities within the university community. Students say the situation has made studying difficult, especially for those who rely on electricity for research, assignments, and virtual classes.

According to several students interviewed, the outages occur for long hours, sometimes lasting an entire day without a clear explanation. This has forced many students to seek alternative power sources outside campus, increasing their daily expenses.

“We understand that power supply can be challenging in Nigeria, but as a private university, we expect a more reliable system,” said Aisha Musa, a 300-level Mass Communication student. “Sometimes we have online lectures or deadlines to meet, but no light or internet.”

The issue has also affected businesses operating within the campus environment. Shop owners and cyber café operators say they now spend more on fuel to power generators, leading to higher prices for students.

A food vendor who preferred anonymity explained that constant fuel purchases are reducing profits. “We have no choice but to increase prices a little. Fuel is expensive, and we must keep our businesses running,” she said.

In addition to academic and economic challenges, students have expressed concerns about safety, particularly at night when power outages leave hostels and walkways poorly lit.

Student leaders have called on the university management to consider long-term solutions, including upgrading generators and exploring renewable energy options such as solar power. Similar solutions have been adopted by other Nigerian universities to reduce dependence on the national grid (read more on campus energy solutions here).

When contacted, a staff member from the university’s Works and Maintenance Department acknowledged the issue and assured students that efforts are ongoing to stabilize power supply. “We are working to improve the situation. Some of the outages are due to technical faults and fuel supply challenges,” the official said.

Despite these assurances, students are urging for faster action, stressing that a stable power supply is essential for quality education and a conducive learning environment.

As the university continues to grow in population and academic activities, many believe addressing the power challenge will significantly enhance students’ overall experience and uphold the institution’s standards.