AUN Marks Nigeria’s 65th Independence with Cultural Showcase of Unity and Style
From Isiagu to Atamfa, from beads to Babbar Riga, students of the American University of Nigeria transformed Independence Day into a living portrait of Nigeria’s ethnic beauty and unity. The vibrant celebration, held at the Aliyu Musdafa Commencement Hall, marked Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary and featured a rich display of culture, fashion, music, and performances.
Described by many as one of the most memorable independence events on campus, the program included poetry recitals, karaoke, a beauty pageant, and a cultural heritage parade. The hall was filled with traditional attire representing both major and minority ethnic groups across Nigeria, reflecting the nation’s multilingual and multicultural identity.
AUN President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, attended the event dressed in the traditional Igbo isiagu outfit. He was accompanied by senior university officials, including the Provost, Prof. Paul Vita; Vice-President, Finance, Ms. Nnenna Mosugu; Vice-President, Administration and Registrar, Mr. Daniel Okereke; and Assistant Vice-President of Enrolments, Mr. Lincoln Morris, all adorned in traditional clothing.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Frazier emphasized that Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people. “The strength of Nigeria is not all about her oil or other mineral resources. The strength of Nigeria lies in its diversity and human capital,” he said. “Don’t allow religion, tribalism, or political affiliation to divide you against national unity,” he added.
He also announced that, with effect from October 1, the university would upgrade its Wi-Fi capacity from 500 kilobytes to 1 gigabyte per second to improve digital connectivity on campus.
The celebration featured standout performances, including poetry renditions by Akachukwu Madueke (Echoes of the Motherland) and Mike Worship (From Struggle to Might). Deborah Victor energized the audience with a performance of Ayra Starr’s “Gimme Dat.”
The beauty pageant featured contestants such as Memuna Shehu, Leila Halilu, Olivia Nwodo, Ekemini Obasi, Chinedu Kalu, Akachukwu Madueke, and Fatima. Olivia Nwodo was crowned Miss Independence, while Chinedu Kalu emerged as Mr. Independence.
The event was widely commended for promoting national pride, cultural appreciation, and unity within the AUN community.
Reported by John Abah