On April 5, 2025, the Student Government Association (SGA) of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) lit up the night with a vibrant Bonfire Night event held at the sandlot beside the cafeteria. Beginning at 9 p.m., the evening offered a refreshing mix of excitement and relaxation, drawing a diverse crowd of students ready to unwind under the stars.
From the moment the flames came to life, the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. With cozy lighting, upbeat music, and a lively market space featuring student vendors, the sandlot transformed into a festive hub. A standout feature of the night was the water balloon fight, which added a thrilling twist to the event and left many soaked but smiling.
“I do enjoy bonfires—that’s why I came,” said Ekennedilichukwu Mokwunye, a fourth-year Computer Engineering major. “I’ve experienced a couple of bonfires in school, and dare I say the bonfire might be the liveliest social event. That was my expectation, and it didn’t disappoint.”
Mokwunye praised the “mix of personalities and friend groups,” which he felt elevated the vibe. “My favorite part of the evening was the water balloon fight. I was hit with the first balloon, so that was interesting,” he added, laughing. “The food was good. The entertainment was good as well. Yeah, I would definitely attend another SGA event like this.”
The mini marketplace was another highlight, where vendors offered a range of items from zobo and yogurt to accessories and sandwiches. Among them was Evalsam Gaul, a fourth-year Software Engineering major and CEO of Nightly Bread, who participated as a vendor.
“The bonfire was a great opportunity for me to advertise my business more. Some customers and students on campus even pleaded that I attend,” Gaul shared. Selling out quickly, she rated her foot traffic and sales an impressive 8 out of 10. “I sold sandwiches, which gave people
something to snack on while having fun at the bonfire,” she said. However, she noted that the event logistics could have been better. “On a scale of 1-10, I’d give it a 5 for organization. The setup could’ve been smoother, especially with the electricity issues.” Still, he confirmed that he would participate in future SGA events.
One of the most talked-about moments was undoubtedly the water fight, a spontaneous burst of laughter, strategy, and surprise. “The fun and thrill of it got me excited,” said Ritji Dimlong, a third-year Software Engineering student who took part. “Seeing everyone together and having fun was amazing.”
Dimlong admitted that although there was an initial plan to coordinate an attack, it quickly turned into a playful ambush. “It was exhilarating and tense because you never know where someone could pop up and splash you,” he recalled. “There was a lot of energy. Yes, I would definitely participate again.”
Overall, SGA Bonfire Night proved to be a spirited success, combining social interaction, entrepreneurship, and light-hearted fun in a relaxed outdoor setting. While attendees and vendors alike pointed out areas for improvement, the overwhelming sentiment was one of appreciation for the memories created and the community brought together by the flames.
Reported by Tirzah Phillips
Work-study, Marketing & Communications Department