About American University of Nigeria
The American University of Nigeria (AUN) is a pioneering institution that fosters transformative education, community engagement, and sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond. Founded in 2004 by former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar and modeled after American liberal arts universities, AUN’s initiative encompasses a holistic approach to higher education. AUN is Africa’s first “Development University.” Its research, programs, and teaching are geared toward developing sustainable solutions to development problems in the region, one of the poorest and least educated in the world.
With a diverse student body, world-class faculty, and an interdisciplinary curriculum, the mission of the AUN Foundation is to provide a dynamic learning environment that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address pressing global challenges. Moreover, the university actively engages in community outreach and development programs, striving to create positive social change in the region. Through innovative research, cultural enrichment, and a dedication to ethical leadership, the American University of Nigeria aims to catalyze progress and transformation in the African continent.
Unique Entrepreneurship Education at AUN, An Untold Story
Led by an American President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier AUN educates a total of 1,500 children and youth each year. They range in age from 2 months old in the Early Learning Center to primary and secondary school students at the AUN Academy, as well as AUN’s undergraduate and graduate students. While most students are Nigerian, AUN hosts students from South Africa, Rwanda, Uganda, Cameroon, and Ghana.
AUN has three main schools: Engineering, Law, Arts and Sciences, Business, and Allied Health. In 2023, nearly 20% of AUN’s funds were used to provide full scholarships to needy students.
“By investing in STEM education and research, we can unlock the full potential of our nation and create a brighter future for all. STEM fields have a profound impact on national development in many ways.” AUN School of Engineering and associate Professor of Telecommunications Engineering, Dr. Abubakar Sadiq Hussaini
Because there is no reliable electricity supply, AUN generates its own power and can provide 24-hour Internet service on its residential campus. AUN is home to the largest e-library in Africa. A technologically intensive Google university, AUN uses digital resources in all its educational programs, classes for all AUN students of all ages, and community outreach projects.
The university is very active in community outreach. Every university student takes a Community Development class, where they participate in local community development projects. These range from tutoring local children to teaching English to mothers who want to read to their children.
AUN fosters sustainable development projects on the edge of an advancing Sahara desert through programs that engage and empower local women. It also promotes peace through sports programs and educational training for at-risk youth through the Adamawa Peace Initiative (API) [link]. API has been internationally recognized as an essential force for peace in the region.
Consisting of Christian and Muslim religious leaders, community leaders, educators, and business people, API has recently been carrying supplies north to displaced survivors of Boko Haram atrocities. The purpose of the Initiative is to foster dialogue and understanding among all Nigerians, regardless of religious, ethnic, or tribal heritage.
