The 17th Commencement Ceremony of the American University of Nigeria, held on May 9, featured a notable moment of recognition and celebration as a delegation from Chokhmah International Academy (CIA) attended to honor their former student, Israel Chimzibudu Curtis Dike, who graduated as a member of the Class of 2026 and served as Class Speaker.
The delegation’s presence added a personal and emotional dimension to the ceremony, underscoring the enduring connections between AUN graduates and the institutions that helped shape their academic foundation.
For Israel, the moment represented a convergence of past and present as he marked one of the most significant milestones of his academic journey. "I wasn’t expecting my former school’s delegation to be present at my graduation,” he said. “It was beautiful to see people who helped shape me come back once again to celebrate with me.”
The visit followed a formal invitation extended by AUN President Prof. DeWayne Frazier, who engaged with Chokhmah International Academy and invited the institution to participate in the commencement ceremony.
The Vice Principal (Administration) of Chokhmah International Academy, Mrs. Uzoma Ijomma, described the invitation as a meaningful acknowledgment of the school’s contribution to student development. “The President came to our school personally to invite us to the commencement ceremony,” she said. “We truly appreciate the gesture and are honored to be part of this special occasion.”
She highlighted Israel’s academic and personal growth during his time at the Academy. “Israel joined the school in 2018, and he has been an exceptional student academically and otherwise,” she said. “He touched many lives at Chokhmah International Academy, and seeing him graduate from AUN is truly an honor for us.”
Board member Mr. Uche Nelson, who attended the ceremony as part of the delegation, said the school took pride in witnessing the success of one of its alumni. “We are here to celebrate with one of our own, Israel Curtis,” he said. “Chokhmah Internationa Academy is known for hard work and integrity. Our founder, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, is visionary and deeply passionate about education, which is why he established Chokhmah International Academy.”
He added that the institution remains committed to producing students who excel in both character and leadership. “Curtis is one of those leaders we are proud of, and we are grateful to God for what He has done in his life,” he said. “On behalf of our president, staff, and members of Chokhmah International Academy, we are honored to be here celebrating this achievement.”
Israel’s academic journey at AUN reflects a consistent record of excellence. Building on a strong foundation from CIA, where he studied under the British IGCSE system, he said the transition to university life was seamless and academically structured.
Beyond academic achievement, Israel described AUN as a transformative environment that strengthened his confidence, communication skills, and leadership capacity. These experiences ultimately contributed to his selection as Class Speaker for the graduating Class of 2026.
His record of achievement also includes leadership roles and academic recognition. A former Honor Society president, Israel received both the Honor Society and President’s Awards for leadership, reflecting his contributions to academic excellence and student governance within the university community.
As the Class of 2026 moves forward, the ceremony highlighted AUN’s continued role in shaping graduates equipped with academic excellence, leadership skills, and global readiness, while also reflecting the lasting influence of the institutions that helped prepare them for success.
By Halima Abdulazeez Muhammad