History of the American University of Nigeria (AUN)
The American University of Nigeria (AUN) was founded in 2003 by Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President, and a group of international educators. Located in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State, AUN was established with a bold vision: to create Africa’s first development university modeled after the American liberal arts system.
From the start, AUN aimed to go beyond just offering degrees. Its mission has been rooted in promoting sustainable development, innovation, and community engagement — preparing students to become leaders who drive positive change. It follows a U.S.-style curriculum, focusing on critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem-solving.
Since its inception, AUN has grown steadily, both in size and influence. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through several schools, including:
- School of Arts & Sciences
- School of Business & Entrepreneurship
- School of Information Technology & Computing
- School of Law
- School of Engineering
- School of Graduate Studies
The university places a strong emphasis on small class sizes, technology integration, and hands-on learning. All instruction is in English, and students come from across Nigeria and other African countries.
Over the years, AUN has earned a reputation for academic excellence and social responsibility. Its Community Development Projects, Entrepreneurship Week, and Student-Led Initiatives have made real impact, particularly in Northeast Nigeria.
The university has also been a beacon of stability and progress in a region that has faced significant challenges due to insurgency. Through resilience and a commitment to its founding values, AUN continues to thrive as a model for private higher education in Africa.
AUN has been recognized by international organizations and educational bodies for its innovative approach and role in nation-building and regional development. It remains one of the few African universities to operate fully on an American-style academic framework.
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