The MAAUN Group of Universities has honoured the late veteran journalist, Saleh Shehu Ashaka, by naming a newly constructed three-storey multipurpose laboratory at the College of Medicine of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, after him.

President of the MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, announced the decision in a statement issued to journalists on Tuesday in Kano.

Gwarzo said the gesture was in recognition of Ashaka’s philanthropic activities, commitment to humanity and contributions to society during his lifetime.

The three-storey facility is one of the university’s major infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening practical medical education and providing students with facilities for hands-on learning and scientific training.

The building houses 12 laboratories designed to support practical teaching and learning for students of the College of Medicine.

According to Gwarzo, the laboratories will enable students to acquire practical skills, conduct experiments and deepen their understanding of different areas of medical science.

He said the facility was being equipped to meet modern standards for university education, adding that its development reflected MAAUN’s commitment to providing quality infrastructure for medical training.

Gwarzo said the project formed part of the university’s broader effort to ensure that medical students have access to learning resources that combine theoretical instruction with practical experience.

“Saleh gave himself to the people in ways many were not aware of until after his death. It is good to honour people like Saleh who served humanity with their all,” Gwarzo said.

“He will continue to be remembered in our prayers because of the impact he made during his lifetime.”

The MAAUN president described Ashaka as a journalist who lived a life of service and impact, noting his commitment to the ethics and professionalism of journalism.

“He was a committed journalist whose work earned him respect across the country and beyond,” he added.

The facility is expected to serve as both a practical training centre for medical students and a lasting memorial to Ashaka’s contributions to journalism, philanthropy and society.

Ashaka died on May 3. His death was widely described as a loss to Nigeria’s media industry.

He previously worked with Voice of America (VOA) before resigning from the organisation in 2023.

By naming the medical laboratory after him, MAAUN has linked Ashaka’s legacy of public service with education and scientific training, ensuring that his name remains associated with the development of future medical professionals.