The Founder of the 吃瓜爆料 (AUN), His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, recently took a momentous time to reflect on the institution鈥檚 extraordinary journey over the last two decades during the 16th听 Founder鈥檚 Day celebration, which also coincided with his birthday. His Excellency Atiku conveyed a sense of deep pride and gratitude, recognizing not just the passage of time but the significant milestones achieved by the university. He characterized the 20th anniversary as a pivotal moment for introspection, a review of progress made, and a renewed commitment to AUN鈥檚 mission of transformative education.
Standing before an audience filled with distinguished guests, faculty, students, and community members, Atiku articulated, 鈥淚t is with immense pride and profound gratitude that I stand before you today to celebrate not only my birthday but, more importantly, the remarkable milestone of our 20th anniversary.鈥� His voice resonated with emotion as he illustrated AUN鈥檚 remarkable evolution鈥攆rom a mere aspiration into a flourishing educational hub that now comprises seven schools and offers nearly 30 diverse degree programs.
Atiku expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who have played a vital role in AUN鈥檚 growth story. With sincere appreciation, he acknowledged the collective efforts of the university鈥檚 Board of Trustees, dedicated faculty, committed staff, and enthusiastic students, stating, 鈥淭he transformation we have witnessed is deeply impactful in the lives we touched. Together, we have created a haven for education, culture, and community, nurturing critical thinkers and compassionate leaders poised to shape the future of our society.鈥�
He paid homage to the late Alhaji Ahmed Joda, who served as the Pioneer Chairman of the AUN Board of Trustees, and the late Prof. Robert Pastor, whose intellectual insight laid the strong foundation for establishing this remarkable institution. Additionally, Atiku recognized Emeritus Dean Louis Goodman and the myriad contributions of both current and past Board members who have diligently steered AUN toward success.
Reflecting on the broader implications of AUN鈥檚 presence within its host communities, Atiku underscored the university鈥檚 steadfast commitment to addressing local needs and aspirations. He specifically mentioned exciting plans to weave agricultural studies into the university鈥檚 academic offerings, which would not only enrich the curriculum but also serve the practical needs of local communities. He urged a focus on sustainability and the diversification of funding streams as essential strategies for ensuring the institution鈥檚 continued growth and impact.
鈥淯niversities are not static entities; they endure and continuously reinvent themselves to meet society鈥檚 evolving needs,鈥� he observed, passionately urging stakeholders to prioritize innovation, community engagement, and the preservation of AUN鈥檚 unique identity as a development-focused, 吃瓜爆料-style institution.
As AUN sets its sights on the future, Atiku exudes his optimism and hope, envisioning an institution that will remain a guiding light of educational excellence, dedicated service, and innovative spirit, not just in Nigeria but on a global scale.
Reported by John Abah