In a moment defined by gratitude, reflection, and celebration, Batch ‘C’ National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) paid a warm courtesy visit to President Dr. Dewayne Frazier on November 6, 2025. What began as a simple end-of-service call quickly became a touching tribute to a year of growth, mentorship, and shared purpose within the AUN community.
Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, Miss Udoh Victoria Clement of the Communication and Marketing Department delivered an emotional address that captivated the room. “We did not just serve, we grew, and we became. AUN is not just a university; we found a place that opened the skies for us,” she said, drawing smiles and nods of agreement from fellow corps members and university leaders.
Dr. Frazier welcomed the corps members with warmth and admiration, commending their dedication to the university’s mission. He reaffirmed AUN’s commitment to human capacity development, noting that the institution remains a place that nurtures excellence, unity, and social responsibility.
In a symbolic expression of appreciation, the corps members presented a collection of thoughtful gifts to the president. The highlight was a traditional Nigerian Jukun attire, one of Nigeria’s renowned fishing cultures. Miss Udoh shared the sentiment behind the gift: “During the last commencement, you spoke passionately about your love for African fishes, so we decided to connect you to a culture that shares that passion. The Jukun people are known for their fishing heritage, and this attire is our way of celebrating that connection.”
The event also featured an open exchange of reflections as corps members shared their experiences working at AUN. Samaila, who served in the AUN Law Library, offered a heartfelt testimony. “I was welcomed into a university where religion has nothing to do with professionalism. My boss is a Muslim, and I am a Christian, yet he treats me like his own child, patiently teaching me how to navigate the library’s resources. In addition, most times what he gets to eat I do have the privilege of eating too. I studied Library Science in a Federal University, but I never knew how to use complex databases until I came here. AUN gave me the practical experience I never had in school. Long live the American University of Nigeria.”
The event concluded with group photographs, capturing the joy and pride shared by the corps members, university leaders, and the president as he received their gifts.
Reported by:
Udoh Victoria Clement
Serving Corps Member, Marketing and Communications