On May 16, the American University of Nigeria transformed its 2025 Graduation Dinner into an unforgettable celebration honoring the academic achievements, leadership, and resilience of the Class of 2025, proudly known as the 'Stallions.'
The event was attended by esteemed guests, proud families, and members of the university community. Among the dignitaries present were AUN founder, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar; the 16th Commencement Speaker, Mr. Brian Deaver; members of the Board of Trustees and Governing Council; as well as distinguished faculty and staff.
AUN President Dr. Dewayne Frazier delivered an inspiring message that resonated deeply with the graduating class. “In the pursuit of growth and knowledge,” he declared, “I can guarantee your degrees and your CGPAs because I have the best faculty, and they have equipped you to be employers, not just employees.” He urged the graduates to remain passionate and purposeful, adding, “The world needs you. Take with you the values of excellence, and I pray you find fulfillment in your journey.”
The evening spotlighted academic excellence, with top-performing students from each school recognized for their exceptional accomplishments:
Habiba Amani Abdullahi emerged as the standout scholar of the night, earning multiple honors: the prestigious Founder’s Award for Best Graduating Student, the Jaiz Bank Award for Academic Excellence, and the Leadway Assurance Award as the Best Female Graduate in the School of Arts and Sciences. She was also named Best in Natural and Environmental Sciences and Overall Best Graduating Student in the School of Arts and Sciences.
Maryam Hammdjoda was honored as Best Graduating Student in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Overall Best in the School of Engineering, and recipient of the Leadway Assurance Award for Best Female Graduate in Engineering.
Yolanda O. Amos received recognition as Best Graduating Student in Software Engineering, Overall Best in the School of Information Technology and Computing (SITC), and Leadway Assurance Award winner for Best Female Graduate in SITC.
Nafeesa Ebbo Ibrahim was named Best Graduating Student in the Department of Private Law, Overall Best in the School of Law, and recipient of the Leadway Assurance Award.
Mabel Jacob Ladu stood out as Best Graduating Master’s Student in SITC, Overall Best Graduate Student in the Graduate School, and recipient of the Provost’s Award for Academic Excellence.
Leadership and service, hallmarks of AUN’s mission, were also celebrated. Auwal Ahmed Aminu, Fatima Bashir Ribadu, and Ibrahim Yusuf received the President’s Award for Leadership, acknowledging their transformative contributions to the university community. Additionally, Phoebe A. Phillips, alongside Ribadu and Yusuf, was presented with a Presidential Award for their impactful role in campus life.
A cross section of the award recipients were delighted, reflecting the pride and promise of a graduating class poised to make their mark on the world.
Reported by pwagreno Blessing Moris