Standing once again on the campus where Africa’s first “development university” was envisioned, the President of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Professor Dewayne Frazier, recently visited the American University (AU) in Washington, D.C. The visit was both symbolic and strategic, reaffirming AUN’s deep commitment to its founding mission: Education for Development.
The idea of AUN was conceived in 2003 through the visionary leadership of His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria. With the collaboration of key AU leaders—most notably the late Professor Robert Pastor and Dr. Louis Goodman—the vision was transformed into reality. Their dedication laid the groundwork for what has grown into one of Africa’s leading development-focused institutions.
From its conceptual roots in Washington, D.C., AUN has evolved into a dynamic university known for its innovative approach to education, student-centered learning, and community impact. Professor Frazier’s return to AU symbolized more than a courtesy visit; it honored the legacy of collaboration and reaffirmed shared values between both institutions.
As AUN celebrates over two decades of academic excellence and social impact, it remains steadfast in its mission to foster leadership, entrepreneurship, and service. The visit to AU not only reflected on the university’s origins but also renewed its commitment to transformative development and global educational partnerships.