Former Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian youths to embrace meritocracy and performance while rejecting tribalism and religious divides
Speaking as the keynote speaker at the 16th Annual Founder’s Day and 20th Anniversary of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, Obi emphasized the importance of leadership rooted in competence, compassion, and vision.
“The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of our youth,” Obi declared. Reflecting on Nigeria’s economic challenges, he encouraged students to uphold integrity and excellence. Quoting Chinua Achebe, he reiterated that Nigeria’s struggles stem from a lack of true leadership. He stressed that a nation’s success depends on the health and education of its people, noting that a strong education system is fundamental to societal progress.
The event, held at the Lamido Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall, gathered political figures, diplomats, scholars, and traditional leaders from across the region.
Deputy Ambassador David Greene, representing the American Embassy, commended AUN for its dedication to the Yola community and its impactful humanitarian initiatives. “We celebrate the visionary leadership behind this university and its commitment to nurturing a new generation of leaders,” Greene stated.
The embassy acknowledged AUN’s founder for establishing the institution in the region, highlighting its unique role in fostering education and community development.
AUN President Dewayne Frazier reflected on the university’s two-decade journey, attributing its accomplishments to the visionary leadership of its founder, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and the dedication of its staff. “Today, we celebrate the fruits of two decades of steadfast vision,” Frazier said.
The AUN Honour Society recognized students for academic excellence and community contributions. Vice President for Academics, Mr. Dan Okereke, highlighted the society’s annual STEM competition for secondary schools in Adamawa State, showcasing the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing future leaders.
In his address, AUN Founder and former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the university’s journey and impact. “Today, we celebrate not only a milestone but a movement—a vision that has touched countless lives. This is but the beginning,” he remarked.
Atiku acknowledged the contributions of key figures in shaping AUN’s legacy, including Professor Robert Pastor, the university’s first Board Chairman, and Mr. Ahmed Joda, a pioneering Board member. He praised the university’s faculty and staff for their dedication to the institution’s mission of excellence and community development.
The founder also emphasized the importance of education and leadership in driving societal change, reiterating AUN’s commitment to nurturing future innovators and leaders.
Obi’s keynote address and Atiku’s reflections underscored a shared vision for Nigeria—a nation driven by excellence, integrity, and inclusive leadership. The event celebrated not just AUN’s achievements but also its ongoing commitment to education, innovation, and societal transformation.
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