Atiku, Obi Unite At AUN’s 20th Anniversary Celebration, Emphasising Education, Leadership

YOLA, Adamawa State–The American University of Nigeria (AUN) celebrated its 20th anniversary and 16th Annual Founder’s Day with a star-studded event that brought together prominent political figures, diplomats, and academics.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, founder of AUN, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, shared the stage, highlighting the university’s impact and emphasising the crucial role of education and strong leadership in Nigeria’s future.

The ceremony, held at the Lamido Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall, featured a keynote address by Mr. Obi, who lauded Atiku’s commitment to education, describing it as “more of a calling than a venture for profit.”

Obi’s speech resonated with the students, urging them to embrace leadership, hope, and strive for a brighter future for Nigeria, despite its challenges.

He stressed the importance of competent, compassionate leadership, free from tribal and religious divisions, echoing Chinua Achebe’s observation on Nigeria’s leadership deficit.

Obi further emphasised the critical link between a strong education system and national progress, calling on the youth to prioritise meritocracy and performance over tribalism and religious affiliation.

The US Embassy in Nigeria, represented by Deputy Ambassador David Greene, expressed its solidarity with AUN and praised its founder’s vision and its impactful humanitarian work in the Yola community.

AUN President Dewayne Frazier highlighted the university’s two-decade journey, crediting Atiku’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment.

The event also recognised outstanding AUN students through the AUN Honour Society, which showcased its commitment to community development, including an annual STEM competition for secondary schools in Adamawa State.

Atiku Abubakar, in his own remarks, expressed gratitude for AUN’s achievements, calling it “a movement — a vision that has touched countless lives.”

He acknowledged the contributions of key figures in AUN’s history, including Professor Robert Pastor and Mr. Ahmed Joda.

He concluded by stating that the 20th anniversary marks only the beginning of AUN’s journey.

The event concluded with the presentation of a commemorative book to Atiku Abubakar, Senator Ben Obi, and Peter Obi, commemorating their significant contributions to the university’s legacy.

The presence of these prominent figures underscored the importance placed on education and leadership in shaping Nigeria’s future, a sentiment echoed throughout the celebratory day.