The President of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, Professor DeWayne Frazier, has charged newly admitted students to embrace change and take advantage of available opportunities as they begin their academic journey at the university.
He gave the charge on January 26, 2026, during the institution’s 42nd matriculation ceremony attended by parents and visitors from within and outside Nigeria. The event marked the formal admission of fresh students to the Classes of 2028, 2029, and 2030, as well as the official commencement of the university’s Spring 2026 semester.
Professor Frazier congratulated them on their successful enrollment and urged them to pursue their academic and personal journeys with determination, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose.
“This matriculation marks the beginning of a transformative phase in your lives. Your experiences at the American University of Nigeria will not only shape your individual futures but will also contribute meaningfully to national development through the pursuit of higher education.”
Professor Frazier commended the founder of the university and former Nigerian Vice President, H.E. Atiku Abubakar, for his vision in education and the enormous investment in AUN. President Frazier told the entry students that their journey marks a milestone in the 23-year history of the development university, with new student hostels being constructed and plans at an advanced stage for the opening of a medical school.
Quoting former South African President Nelson Mandela, the AUN president reminded the students that success is rooted in resilience and the ability to rise after setbacks, describing the occasion as a unique opportunity for them to grow, learn, and excel. “You are expected to uphold the core values of this university— excellence, integrity, freedom, respect, equality, and service—as these principles are central to developing ethical leaders capable of making meaningful impact in Africa and beyond.”
The institution reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and character development, assuring the students of a supportive and empowering learning environment that promotes critical thinking and leadership. They were advised to approach their academic journey with open minds, curiosity, and courage, and reassured of the university community’s readiness to support them throughout their stay.
While presenting the matriculating students, the Registrar and Vice President for Administration, Mr. Daniel Okereke, disclosed that the the newly admitted cohort reflects the growing international outlook of the university. He noted that AUN welcomed students from the Republic of Chad, Japan, South Africa, and Cameroon, describing this development as a clear indication that the vision of building a truly international university is steadily taking root.
Mr. Okereke further stated that students were also admitted from all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. According to him, “this broad national representation underscores the university’s commitment to inclusiveness, unity, and equal access to quality education.” He commended the university leadership for its dedication to expanding the institution’s reach and reputation both locally and globally.
In line with its commitment to expanding access to quality education and strengthening postgraduate studies, the university also highlighted its recent partnership with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). Through the collaboration, AUN enrolled graduate students from various tertiary institutions across the North-East region, a move aimed at enhancing academic capacity, research output, and human capital development in the region.
The university further hosted an orientation program for the newly enrolled graduate students on the same day. The program was designed to familiarize them with the university’s academic structure, policies and expectations, while also providing an overview of available research opportunities, support services, and campus resources to prepare them for a successful academic experience.
The President of the Student Government Association (SGA), Mr. Mohammed Bashir Zakari, urged the new students to dream boldly and embrace growth beyond their comfort zones as they navigate their academic journey. He encouraged them not to fear failure, noting that every setback offers valuable lessons that contribute to personal development and self-discovery.
“The university’s rich cultural diversity is one of the strengths of the AUN experience, and I encourage you to build meaningful relationships with colleagues from different backgrounds,” Mr. Zakari said.
The ceremony featured the administration of the matriculation oath, officially admitting the students into the AUN academic community and signaling the beginning of a new academic chapter.
Signed
Yusuf Mohammed
Senior Director Public Affairs