THE American University of Nigeria (AUN) celebrated its 16th Annual Founder’s Day and 20th Anniversary on Saturday. The event brought together diplomats, scholars, traditional leaders and political figures including former Vice President and founder of the university, Atiku Abubakar, and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, both of whom contested the last presidential elections under different political parties.
Obi delivered a keynote address of the event which was hosted at the Lamido Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall.
In his address, Obi expressed heartfelt appreciation for Atiku’s personal sacrifices in championing education, a pursuit he described as “more of a calling than a venture for profit.”
His address to the students was a clarion call to embrace leadership, hope, and the promise of a brighter future for Nigeria, despite its challenges.
Quoting late Chinua Achebe, Obi reiterated the timeless truth: Nigeria’s challenges are rooted in a deficit of true leadership.
He underscored the qualities of a good leader—competence, compassion, vision—and urged the students to rise above tribal and religious divides.
He further noted that the success of a nation is anchored in the health and education of its people, emphasising that a strong education system is a cornerstone of societal progress.
In his reflection on Nigeria’s recent economic trajectory, Obi called upon the youth to forge a new path, focused on meritocracy and performance rather than tribalism or religion.
“The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of our youth,” he declared, urging them to hold fast to the values of integrity and excellence.
In his remarks, Atiku expressed profound gratitude for AUN’s journey thus far, while stating that the 20th anniversary marks the beginning of the journey ahead.
“Today, we celebrate not only a milestone but a movement — a vision that has touched countless lives. This is but the beginning,” he said, acknowledging the contributions of key individuals who have helped shape AUN’s legacy, including Professor Robert Pastor, the university’s first board chairman, Mr Ahmed Joda and the pioneering board members who have served over the years.
In its message, the American Embassy in Nigeria, through Deputy Ambassador David Greene, conveyed its solidarity with AUN’s faculty and staff, expressing gratitude for the institution’s commitment to Yola and its surrounding communities.
The embassy also lauded the foresight of AUN’s founder for his vision in establishing the university in this remarkable region, particularly for its impactful humanitarian initiatives.
In his address, AUN President, Dewayne Frazier, extolled the institution’s 20-year journey, crediting Atiku’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment.
“Today we celebrate the fruits of two decades of steadfast vision,” he declared, emphasising the collective achievements of the university’s dedicated staff, students, and alumni.
Frazier also presented a commemorative book to Atiku; Obi and Board of Trustees chairman, Senator Ben Obi for their vital roles in the university’s storied legacy.
Also at the event, the AUN Honour Society recognised students for their outstanding academic accomplishments and their remarkable contributions to community development.
Vice President for Academics, Mr Dan Okereke, highlighted that the Honour Society’s creation of an annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) competition in Adamawa State’s secondary schools further cemented AUN’s commitment to nurturing future innovators.
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