PAAU restructures security system, names new CSO

Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has appointed retired Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Israel Sanni Ayegba as its new Chief Security Coordinator (CSC) as part of efforts to strengthen security across the institution following the June 11, 2026, security breach on campus.

The appointment, which takes immediate effect, was approved by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, following the university management’s adoption of the committee’s report on the security incident at its 403rd regular meeting held on June 29, 2026.

According to the university, the appointment is one of several measures recommended by the committee to overhaul the institution’s security architecture, improve intelligence gathering, enhance operational coordination, and prevent future security breaches.

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CSP Ayegba becomes only the second Chief Security Coordinator in the university’s history, succeeding the pioneer occupant of the position, retired Major M. J. Adama.

As part of the restructuring, the Chief Security Officer (CSO), Mr. Emmanuel Onuh Attah, will now report directly to the Chief Security Coordinator on all matters relating to the day-to-day management of campus security.

The university said the new CSC has been tasked with developing a comprehensive security framework, advising management on security policies and strategies, coordinating security operations, and improving the effectiveness of the institution’s security system.

Ayegba retired from the Nigeria Police Force after more than 35 years of service, during which he gained extensive experience in intelligence gathering, crime prevention, conflict management, law enforcement, and security administration.

His policing career saw him serve as Divisional Police Officer in Obajana, Ankpa, Ogorimagongo, Wukari, Gembu, and Karim Lamido. He also worked at the National Assembly as a Criminal Records and Intelligence Officer attached to the Senate Chamber and served as Personal Aide to two former Inspectors-General of Police, Alhaji Aliyu Attah and Alhaji Ibrahim Coomassie.

He was also part of the African Union Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur, Sudan, where he received advanced training in peacekeeping and security operations.

Academically, Ayegba holds a Master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from Federal University Lokoja, a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Security Studies from Kwararafa University, Wukari, as well as a Diploma in Public Administration.

Expressing confidence in the appointment, the Vice-Chancellor said Ayegba’s wealth of experience would strengthen the university’s security through intelligence-led policing, proactive surveillance, stronger collaboration with security agencies and effective stakeholder engagement.

Professor Usman reaffirmed the university management’s commitment to implementing far-reaching security reforms aimed at safeguarding lives and property while sustaining PAAU’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence.

He also urged students to avoid cultism and other criminal activities and to support the institution’s renewed security measures to ensure a peaceful and conducive learning environment.

The university further appealed to staff, students, and other members of the institution to cooperate fully with the new Chief Security Coordinator in the discharge of his responsibilities.