The American University of Nigeria (AUN) commemorated its 17th Founder’s Day on November 22, 2025, marking a milestone defined by exceptional growth, enhanced campus innovation, and an unwavering commitment to development-focused education. This year’s celebration—held in the distinguished Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall—brought together students, faculty, alumni, partners, and friends of the university to reflect on its remarkable journey.
AUN President, Prof. DeWayne Frazier, described the past year as a period of “unprecedented progress,” highlighting the institution’s sustained advancements in academic excellence, research innovation, and community impact. Reflecting on the university’s origins, he stated, “Over two decades ago, our dear founder, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, and a team of passionate visionaries laid the cornerstone for what would become Africa’s first Development University. Their dream was bold, their commitment unwavering, and their impact, immeasurable.”
Prof. Frazier emphasized that AUN’s success is rooted in years of deliberate investment in quality teaching, campus development, and student-centered learning. “The last six months have been a whirlwind of milestones, including record-breaking enrollment, a new Jaiz Bank Entrepreneurship Hub with a 5v5 soccer field with solar lights, new tennis courts, and the launch of the AUN Alumni Park,” he noted. “These are just the physical accomplishments; what our students are doing inside and outside the classroom is stellar—from peace initiatives to tutoring to community cleanup projects, their impact in this region is felt by the Yola community.”
The ceremony also honored AUN’s visionary founder, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, whose dedication to bringing American-style education to Nigeria has shaped the university’s identity for more than two decades. Prof. Frazier remarked, “You will not find any person in Nigeria who has given more to their commitment to education than our dear Founder. His impact can be seen with AUN graduates in this commencement hall and all over the world.”
AUN celebrated the legacy of early contributors such as the late Dr. Robert “Bob” Pastor renowned scholar, former White House National Security Council member, and Peace Corps volunteer. Prof. Frazier recalled, “The award-winning AUN library is named after Dr. Robert Pastor in remembrance of his contribution along this journey.”
Across academics, research, and community engagement, AUN continues to deepen its impact. Prof. Frazier highlighted, “Our mission has always been clear: to provide a world-class education rooted in critical thinking, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development. Through initiatives like the Feed and Read program and our alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we have remained steadfast in our pledge to serve.”
Looking to the future, he reaffirmed the university’s commitment to leadership development: “The challenges ahead are great, but so too are the opportunities. Let us continue to innovate, to inspire, and to lead. Let us remain true to our mission of developing leaders who will shape a better, more sustainable world.”
Reported by John Abah