Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN), Maradi, has matriculated 430 students for the 2025/2026 academic session, marking a new intake into its undergraduate programmes across various disciplines.
The institution, founded in 2013, is regarded as one of the first bilingual universities in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering programmes in both English and French while focusing on science, humanities, research and innovation.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of the Maradi campus, Shu'aibu Usman-Tanko, reminded the new students of the academic and ethical expectations required of them.
He described matriculation as a formal confirmation that the students are academically and psychologically prepared for the demands of university education.
"Matriculation denotes the formal admission of candidates who are adjudged academically qualified, emotionally stable and ready to cope with the rigorous challenges of academic engagement," he said.
Usman-Tanko urged the students to remain focused and adhere strictly to the institution's rules, stressing that the university maintains zero tolerance for misconduct.
Some of the newly admitted students described the university as a platform for growth and international exposure, pointing to the success of its graduates, particularly in the health sciences.
One student noted that many alumni are now working abroad, describing the institution as one that is "breaking barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse learning environment".
The university continues to expand its footprint across the region, with affiliated institutions including MAAUN Kano, Franco-British International University and Canadian University of Nigeria.
Officials disclosed that work is ongoing at the permanent site in Djiratawa, Maradi, where a major campus development project is underway, reflecting continued investment in infrastructure and capacity.
The latest matriculation underscores the institution's growing role in higher education across West Africa, as it continues to attract students from different backgrounds into its bilingual academic system.
Recall that the Maryam Abacha American University of Niger was in January 2026 ranked as the number one university in the Niger Republic by the AD Scientific Index, emerging ahead of all public and private institutions in the country.