Peter Obi to Deliver Convocation Lecture at Atiku’s American University of Nigeria’s 20th Anniversary

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, is set to deliver the convocation lecture at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, Adamawa State, as part of the institution’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. The lecture, scheduled for Saturday, coincides with the university’s 16th Founder’s Day event.

Ibrahim Umar, spokesperson for the Peter Obi Media Reach, announced this development on Friday in Abuja. He highlighted Obi’s track record of engaging with renowned academic institutions worldwide, such as Harvard and Yale, making him a fitting speaker for the occasion.

The event will also honor the university’s founder, former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, for his significant contributions to education and human development in Nigeria. Umar described AUN as a leading institution committed to addressing Africa’s socio-economic challenges through education and community service. Over the past two decades, AUN has gained recognition for its impact, ranking among the top three Nigerian universities in the Times Higher Education’s 2024 global impact ranking.

Since its establishment in 2003, AUN has expanded its academic programs and developed affiliations with international institutions. The university also hosts the American Window for Nigeria’s northeast zone, providing students and the public with access to scholarship and research opportunities in the United States.

AUN President Prof. DeWayne Frazier expressed excitement about Obi’s participation, describing him as an accomplished leader and advocate for education. “Mr. Obi’s dedication to quality leadership and education makes him an excellent choice to commemorate our 20 years,” Frazier stated.

This lecture places Obi among an esteemed group of past speakers, including Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Prof. Charles Soludo, and former Ugandan Vice President Dr. Gilbert Bukenya.