The of Maryam Abacha American Group of Universities (MAAUN), Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has handed over the presidency of Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN), Maradi, to Prof. Ibrahim A. Lawal after 13 years at the helm of the institution.

The transition took place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in Maradi, Niger Republic, with Gwarzo formally presenting the appointment letter to Prof. Lawal. He described the transition as part of efforts to strengthen the university and create opportunities for other members of the academic community to contribute to its growth.

Gwarzo recalled that MAAUN Niger began about 13 years ago with modest resources but had grown through determination, sincerity and integrity. He said the MAAUN Group had since expanded its operations to establish four private universities across Africa, including MAAUN Niger-Maradi, MAAUN Kano, Franco-British International University (FBIU), Kaduna, and Canadian University of Nigeria (CUN), Abuja.

He expressed optimism that the institutions under the group would produce future leaders, including a president of Nigeria. “It is my pleasure to see one of us who is a Deputy Governor. Maybe tomorrow I will see one of us as a president of Nigeria,” he said.

The MAAUN founder described Prof. Lawal as a “double professor”, noting that he is a professor at both MAAUN Niger and Bayero University, Kano. He congratulated him on his appointment and wished him a successful and peaceful tenure.

Also speaking, Sokoto State Deputy Governor and MAAUN alumnus, Idris Muhammad Gobir, described the transition as a significant moment. Gobir said he was among the pioneer students of MAAUN Niger and the first set of students admitted into its PhD programme.

He disclosed that he obtained his BSc, MSc and PhD degrees from the institution, while commending Gwarzo for his vision and investment in education. According to him, the MAAUN founder has consistently created opportunities for people to improve themselves and realise their potential.

“Alhaji Adamu Abubakar is the kind of person that we always pray to have in our community because he is one of those people whose aim is to push people to become better and create opportunities for others to realise their dreams,” Gobir said.

In his remarks, the newly appointed President of MAAUN Niger, Prof. Ibrahim Lawal, expressed appreciation to Gwarzo for entrusting him with the leadership of the institution and for recognising his potential.

Before his appointment, Lawal served at Bayero University, Kano, where he was Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Head of Department, among other positions. He is expected to build on the achievements recorded by the institution under Gwarzo’s leadership.

The transition marks a new chapter in the leadership of MAAUN Niger, with Prof. Lawal assuming responsibility for the institution after 13 years under its founder.