Atiku urges graduates of AUN to be hardworking, narrates how he battled poverty

By Yagana Ali Yola 

The Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the graduates of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) to embody the qualities of resilience, courage, and integrity. 

According to him, these essential attributes will not only enable them to achieve their full potential but also make a lasting impact in the society.

Abubakar, who is also the founder of AUN, shared his remarkable personal story of overcoming adversity, highlighting the transformative power of education. 

Born in Jada, Adamawa State, he faced numerous challenges, including poverty and resistance from his family, which ultimately led to his father being jailed for refusing to allow him to attend school. 

Despite these obstacles, Abubakar persevered and went on to achieve great things.

The former Vice President emphasized the significance of education in shaping purposeful leadership and meaningful success. 

He described AUN as a world-class institution that represents a legacy that will outlive its founders and serve future generations. 

Abubakar noted that the university stands not just as a place of academic excellence but as a symbol of what vision, sacrifice, and conviction can achieve.

Abubakar also shared his experiences of facing persecution, vilification, and political hunting, but standing firm in the face of adversity. 

He stressed the importance of patience, moral clarity, and courage in overcoming challenges and achieving one’s goals.

According to him, patience is not a weakness but a quiet strength, a virtue of the wise.

To aspiring entrepreneurs among the graduating class, Abubakar offered practical and ethical guidance. He urged them to build their businesses on integrity, independence, and a commitment to ethical values.

Abubakar also revealed that he is working on a memoir that will chronicle his journey from public service and business to politics, offering lessons for future generations.

The graduation ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Senator Ben Obi, Chairman of AUN’s Board of Trustees, and Senator Bindow Jibrilla, former Governor of Adamawa State. Both dignitaries praised Abubakar’s unwavering commitment to education and youth development.

A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of 12-year-old chess prodigy Mary Zira, a student at AUN Academy.

 Mary was honored for her outstanding talent, having won a silver medal at a U.S. chess tournament. This recognition underscores Abubakar’s passion for mentoring and empowering the next generation.

In his closing message, Abubakar charged the graduates to let patience guide them through adversity, face challenges with courage, and always let integrity define their choices.

He expressed optimism that with these qualities, the sky will be their stepping stone, and they will achieve great things.