Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, is set to deliver the convocation lecture at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, Adamawa State, on Saturday. This lecture marks a significant occasion as AUN commemorates its 20th anniversary. The announcement was made by Ibrahim Umar, the spokesman for the Peter Obi Media Reach, revealing that Obi’s keynote address is in line with his trend of speaking at prominent educational institutions worldwide, including notable universities such as Harvard and Yale. This opportunity not only enables Obi to share his insights on pressing global issues but also underscores his commitment to education and societal advancement.
The lecture, which forms part of AUN’s 16th Founder’s Day celebrations, will also pay tribute to the university’s founder, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice-President of Nigeria. His extensive contributions to education and human development will be recognized during the event, reinforcing AUN’s mission of promoting quality education in Nigeria and its impact on societal growth. This acknowledgement serves to highlight the intersection of educational leadership and community service, significant elements that underpin AUN’s philosophy since its inception.
AUN has established itself as a prominent institution in Nigeria over the past two decades, emphasizing the need for students to tackle the socio-economic challenges facing the African continent through their learning and research. The university has been involved in numerous outreach projects that engage students, alumni, faculty, and staff, contributing to its recognition as one of Nigeria’s top three universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) 2024 global impact ranking. This commitment to community service distinguishes AUN as an institution that bridges academic excellence and social responsibility.
Since its establishment in 2003, AUN has broadened its academic offerings and nurtured affiliations with various international institutions. One notable initiative is the creation of the American Window in the north-east zone, which provides students and the public with access to information about scholarships and research opportunities in the United States. These initiatives exemplify AUN’s aim to enhance educational access and foster international collaboration in academia. The president of AUN, Prof. DeWayne Frazier, expressed gratitude for Obi’s acceptance to speak, acknowledging his significant public service record and educational advocacy.
Obi’s participation in this celebratory event situates him alongside a distinguished roster of previous speakers who have shared their insights at AUN’s Founder’s Day lectures. The esteemed lineup includes accomplished figures such as Dr. Paul Vita, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Bishop Mathew Kukah, former Ugandan Vice-President Dr. Gilbert Bukenya, and Prof. Charles Soludo. This historical context elevates the significance of Obi’s address, aligning his vision and leadership with global thought leadership in education and governance.
As Obi prepares to deliver his keynote lecture, it is evident that the occasion serves multiple purposes: celebrating AUN’s two-decade journey, honoring its founder, and addressing critical themes relevant to Nigeria’s youth and broader socio-economic conditions. The interplay of education, leadership, and community engagement highlighted at this event reflects a progressive narrative aimed at inspiring future generations to not only pursue academic success but also effect meaningful change within their communities and beyond.
