Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, will deliver the convocation lecture at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, Adamawa State, on Saturday.
This event marks the university's 20th anniversary, a milestone that celebrates two decades of academic excellence and societal contributions.
The announcement was made on Friday in Abuja by Ibrahim Umar, the spokesperson for Peter Obi Media Reach.
Umar stated that Obi's keynote address, scheduled for the institution’s 16th Founder’s Day celebration, aligns with his history of engaging in discussions at prestigious educational institutions worldwide.
These include notable addresses at Harvard University, Yale University, and other globally recognized centers of learning.
According to Umar, the occasion will also honor the university’s founder and former Vice-President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for his significant contributions to education and human development in Nigeria.
“The 16th Founder’s Day lecture will be the highlight of activities marking the 20th anniversary of the founding of the American-style Development University,” Umar said.
He added that AUN is recognized for educating students to channel their learning and research into addressing socio-economic challenges across the African continent.
Over the past 20 years, the university’s students, alumni, faculty, and staff have been actively involved in numerous community service and outreach initiatives.
These efforts have positioned AUN among the top three Nigerian universities in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) global impact ranking.
Since its establishment in 2003, AUN has expanded its academic offerings and strengthened its affiliations with foreign institutions, thereby cementing its reputation as a leading educational hub.
Umar noted that the university now hosts the American Window for the northeast zone of Nigeria, providing students and the public with access to vital information on scholarships and research opportunities in the United States.
The President of AUN, Professor DeWayne Frazier, expressed his enthusiasm for Obi’s acceptance of the invitation to be the keynote speaker.
“I am pleased and honored to announce that the former Executive Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, will be our keynote speaker,” Frazier stated.
He described Obi as a distinguished public servant and politician who has dedicated much of his life to delivering quality leadership and service to Nigerians.
“Mr. Obi is a champion of education and will be an excellent speaker to celebrate our 20 years,” Frazier added.
The Founder’s Day lecture has become a tradition at AUN, attracting prominent personalities from various fields to inspire and engage the academic community.
With this upcoming address, Peter Obi joins a distinguished list of global figures who have graced the event with their insights and expertise.
Past speakers include Dr. Paul Vita (2019), Professor Ibrahim Gambari (2009), Bishop Matthew Kukah (2011), former Ugandan Vice-President Dr. Gilbert Bukenya (2013), Professor Charles Soludo (2012), and Professor William Bertrand of Tulane University (2014).
The inclusion of Obi in this elite group reflects his standing as an influential voice in education and public policy.
In addition to his political career, Obi is widely regarded for his advocacy for education reform and his commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders through knowledge.
As AUN marks two decades of its existence, the university continues to celebrate its role as a trailblazer in American-style education in Nigeria.
Its focus on innovative teaching methods and community engagement has not only elevated its status locally but also drawn international recognition.
Peter Obi’s participation in the anniversary celebration underscores the institution’s mission to foster intellectual discourse and inspire transformative leadership.
The convocation lecture, set to be delivered by Obi, is expected to attract a wide audience, including students, faculty, alumni, and notable dignitaries.
It promises to be a moment of reflection and celebration of AUN’s achievements while also highlighting the potential for future growth.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this event is not just a milestone for the university but also a testament to the vision of its founder, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
Through his efforts, AUN has emerged as a beacon of hope for education in the northeast and beyond.
The anticipation surrounding Peter Obi’s address reflects his reputation as a thought leader capable of addressing critical issues facing education and development in Nigeria.
As AUN continues its journey, it remains committed to its mission of producing graduates who are well-equipped to tackle societal challenges and drive progress in their communities.
Peter Obi’s keynote speech will undoubtedly be a highlight of the anniversary celebrations, reinforcing the university’s dedication to excellence and its role in shaping the future of education in Africa.
The event marks another chapter in AUN’s legacy, celebrating the power of education to transform lives and build a brighter future for all.
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