Rita Odafe
Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President and the visionary behind the American University of Nigeria (AUN), has emphasized that education is the key driver for individual development and national advancement.
He made these remarks during his speech to the AUN graduating cohort of 2025.
Reflecting on his early life, Atiku shared the adversities he encountered, stating, “My father was imprisoned for opposing my school enrollment.”
He reminisced about his modest educational beginnings, sharing, “We began with nothing — sitting on the ground, writing with our fingers. That’s my journey.”
Despite the difficulties he faced, Atiku’s commitment to education was a major factor in his success.
Atiku clarified that the creation of AUN was not a direct response to his childhood challenges, but was inspired by his experiences with the American Peace Corps.
“The establishment of AUN has a different origin. It was during my time with the American Peace Corps in 1961 that my vision was sparked,” he stated, recognizing the valuable mentors who shaped his educational journey.
In other discussions, Atiku emphasized the significance of patience and bravery in navigating life’s hurdles, sharing personal stories of resilience.
“I’ve experienced hardship. I’ve faced threats, but I stood firm,” he noted, adding, “Patience is not a sign of weakness. It’s a tool for the wise.”
Atiku revisited the political battles he endured under military rule, recounting how he was offered an unearned governorship, which he declined.
“When resisting military oppression, I was offered a position without an election. I turned it down. In 1999, I earned my place through fair means and became Vice President,” he reflected.
The former Vice President was also inspired by his mentor, the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, who displayed remarkable courage in the face of death.
“On the day he was to be executed, his blood pressure was remarkably stable. That’s true bravery,” Atiku noted, emphasizing Yar’Adua’s resilience and strength.
Atiku recounted a harrowing incident from his past, sharing how he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in Kaduna.
“I concealed my wife and children in a wardrobe before stepping out to confront the assailants. They shot at me but missed. I stood up and asked, ‘Why did you fire?’ That exemplifies courage,” he said, showcasing his resolve to face challenges directly.
To the graduates, especially budding entrepreneurs, Atiku imparted valuable advice: “Build your business with integrity. Maintain independence from government influence. Steer clear of unnecessary conflict, but always uphold your principles.”
