The American University of Nigeria (AUN) reinforced its commitment to academic partnership, national development, and shared values in higher education as its President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, led a distinguished delegation to the 29th and 30th Combined Convocation Ceremony of Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola.
Dr. Frazier was accompanied by senior members of the AUN leadership team, including Vice President for Academic Affairs, Prof. Paul Vita; Registrar, Mr. Daniel Okereke; Vice President for Finance, Ms. Nnenna Mosugu; and Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management, Mr. Lincon Moris. The AUN delegation’s presence highlighted the university’s role as a strong collaborator and thought leader within Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
On behalf of the entire AUN learning community, President Frazier delivered a deeply resonant goodwill message congratulating MAU on the historic convocation milestone. He applauded the university’s Governing Council, Senate, faculty, graduating students, and parents, describing the occasion as a celebration of perseverance, excellence, and institutional growth.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and their families on this historic achievement,” Dr. Frazier said. “It is our sincere hope that, as alumni of your distinguished institution, these graduates will continue to embody its noble values and proudly serve as ambassadors of the university wherever they may find themselves.”
President Frazier also commended MAU’s faculty for their dedication to mentorship and their critical role in shaping future leaders of Nigeria, aligning closely with AUN’s own mission of producing ethical, problem-solving graduates with global relevance.
A central highlight of AUN’s engagement at the convocation was Dr. Frazier’s strong endorsement of the convocation lecture theme, “Building Trust amidst Conflict: Communication, Leadership & the Promise of Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria.” He emphasized that the theme speaks directly to Nigeria’s current realities and the responsibility of universities to respond to societal challenges.
“Trust remains a vital pillar in nurturing peaceful coexistence, yet it is increasingly fragile within our society,” he noted. “Your institution’s deliberate focus on building trust amidst conflict is both commendable and visionary, positioning your learning community as a catalyst for addressing Nigeria’s pressing social and economic challenges.”
The Vice Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, warmly acknowledged the AUN President’s message and presence, expressing sincere appreciation for the solidarity and encouragement extended by AUN. He described the felicitation as a meaningful gesture that strengthens inter-university cooperation and shared academic purpose.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the AUN President embodied the university’s student-centered ethos by sharing moments of joy with graduating students and their families, celebrating their achievements and the promise of their futures.