The American University of Nigeria (AUN) Library has received a major boost with the donation of 1,006 books from Dr. Patrick Fay, a long-serving faculty member at AUN and former Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria. The generous contribution, which arrived this semester, spans critical fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Diplomacy, and Government. These resources will serve as valuable tools for both undergraduate and graduate students, supporting advanced learning and research in disciplines that shape today’s interconnected world.

AUN President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, described the gift as a remarkable addition to the university’s academic resources. “Having a scholar like Ambassador Fay, who has taught here and published widely in international relations, share his lifetime collection with us is a blessing,” he said. “These materials will enrich the academic journey of our students as they prepare for careers and further studies in global affairs.”

The Provost, Prof. Paul Vita, emphasized the uniqueness of the collection in Nigeria. “Many of these books and journals are simply not available elsewhere. With this gift, AUN students and faculty now enjoy exclusive access to resources that elevate our library as a true center of knowledge in diplomacy and global studies.”

University Librarian Mr. Benson Ali confirmed that the books have been made fully accessible to students. Rather than being placed in a restricted section, they are available on open shelves for borrowing and use. He also highlighted their long-term value: “Unlike online resources that may disappear due to cyber challenges, these books remain permanently with us.”

With this donation, the AUN Library continues to expand as a hybrid academic hub, blending cutting-edge digital resources with timeless physical collections.

Reported by Halima Abdulazeez Muhammad.

With pomp, reflection, and celebration, the American University of Nigeria (AUN) welcomed its newest students into its vibrant community on September 1, 2025, at the Lamido Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall. The ceremony formally ushered in the Classes of 2027, 2029, and 2030. The event radiated the spirit of new beginnings.

For the freshmen, it was the first step into a transformative journey that blends knowledge, leadership, and service. The atmosphere brimmed with excitement as family, faculty, and fellow students witnessed this defining moment in the lives of the new AUN scholars.

While addressing the convocation, AUN President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, warmly reminded the students of the responsibility that comes with the pledge. “As you embark on this journey,” he urged the new students to embrace the spirit of service, engage with their communities, and contribute positively. “This pledge is not just to excel academically, but to commit yourself to the core values of the university, which include integrity, respect, and responsibility.

Be very deliberate in owning your mistakes, and know that the staff and faculty are always ready to work with you.” Dr. Frazier’s message resonated as he detailed the challenges facing today’s world, including a healthcare system affected by the migration of medical professionals and urgent climate crises in need of innovative solutions in solar, hydro, and wind energy.

He emphasized that education at AUN extends beyond classroom learning, cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and empathy. "Let your education become a beacon of hope not just for yourself but for your families, your community, and what you represent." The President closed his address with a stirring reminder of the legacy each student is stepping into: “As you take the first step into this chapter, you are part of a legacy built on the foundation of knowledge, service, and leadership. AUN is ever ready to support you throughout your journey into this robust educational system.”

In addition to the pledge, the ceremony also featured the unveiling of new facilities that reflect AUN’s commitment to student development. Dr. Frazier officially handed over the Lawn Tennis facilities, generously donated by Mr. Brian Dever, a friend of AUN and the University’s 16th Commencement Speaker. He also commissioned the JAIZ Bank Entrepreneurship Hub, a gift from JAIZ Bank to strengthen AUN’s entrepreneurial spirit by providing mentorship and resources to drive innovation and business development.

Following the recess of the Fall 2025 Convocation, the University community proceeded to the official unveiling and ribbon-cutting of the new hub. The facility is expected to empower students to launch their own business initiatives, sharpen their entrepreneurial skills, and embrace experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for the complexities of today’s

global economy.Reported by: Udoh Victoria Clement
Serving Corps Member, Marketing and Communications

In an inspiring address, the President of the Student Government Association (SGA), Muhammed Bashir Zakari, officially welcomed the incoming Classes of 2029 and 2030 to the American University of Nigeria (AUN) on September 1, 2025, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for hundreds of freshmen.

Speaking before new students and their families at the Lamido Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall, Zakari extended not just a welcome to campus, but to what he described as a life-changing experience at Africa’s first Development University. “AUN is more than a university,” Zakari said. “It is your new home. There are moments in life that define history—moments when you know, deep in your soul, that things will never be the same. Today is such a moment.”

Acknowledging the mix of excitement and anxiety that often accompanies the start of university life, Zakari shared his personal story. “My time at AUN wasn’t something I planned; it was something I discovered. And that’s what AUN offers, the chance to discover yourself in ways you never imagined.”

He emphasized AUN’s mission of development and community impact, highlighting programs such as Feed and Read and the university’s extensive community service initiatives that shape students into change-makers.

Turning to parents, Zakari expressed appreciation for their trust in AUN. “Thank you for having the courage to send your children far from home,” he said. “The person you see today will not be the same person you meet at the end of this journey. You’ll see someone more mature, more thoughtful, someone who sees challenges not as problems, but as opportunities. That’s what AUN does.”

Zakari encouraged the new students to step outside their comfort zones. “Join something. Learn something. Try, fail, learn, and grow. The friendships you build here may be exactly what you need tomorrow.”

In closing, he challenged the new students to redefine success beyond grades. “At AUN, success is not measured by your GPA, but by who you become when you leave and the impact you’ve made. You’re not just here to take classes. You’re here to take charge of who you are.”

The address ended on a high note, as the energy in the hall reflected optimism, courage, and a strong sense of belonging, signaling the start of a life-changing journey for AUN’s newest Stallions.

Reported by Pwagreno Blessing Moris

In a remarkable display of unity and service, the freshmen of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) carried out their first community service project on August 30, 2025, at the Remi Educational Foundation in Yola, a school that caters to children with special needs.

The activity reflects one of AUN’s core values—community service. By brightening two classroom blocks with fresh coats of paint, the students transformed the spaces into colorful environments designed to inspire joy and learning. This tradition not only benefits the community but also introduces new students to the importance of giving back from the very beginning of their academic journey.

Speaking on the significance of the activity, Mr. Sesugh stated. “This is the experience we want our students to carry along with them during their entire stay in the school. This is the way we build love for our community by inculcating the spirit of service.”

For the freshmen, the experience was both rewarding and eye-opening, underscoring the idea that leadership begins with service. The newly painted classrooms now stand as a visible reminder of the impact that collective effort and youthful enthusiasm can achieve.

A freshman, Maryam Muhammed, reflected on the lessons she learned from the project, saying, "the exercise involved some struggle for me. I wanted the painting to look perfect, so I kept going over the patches. I think it's a lesson for life. Helping those less privileged will definitely be a priority for me in the future."

The Principal of Remi Educational Foundation also expressed deep gratitude to AUN, saying with a smile, “AUN made me so surprised at this act, we are so grateful to have been assisted. May AUN grow and excel. Long live the founder, the president, and the school as a whole.”

By the close of the day it was not only a fulfilling day of service by the freshmen but also the beginning of a journey of meaningful engagement with the Yola community they now call home.

The event was attended by the President of AUN, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, and several university staff members, who joined in supporting and celebrating the students’ efforts.

Reported by: Udoh Victoria Clement
Serving Corps Member, Marketing and Communications