Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has announced plans to return to university following his retirement from active politics, reaffirming his deep commitment to education and human capital development.
Atiku made the remarks on Sunday in Abuja while delivering the keynote address at the Pacesetters’ Schools Abuja Class of 2025 Graduation and Prize-Giving Ceremony, where 205 students graduated.
Speaking at the event, Atiku who is the founder of American University of Nigeria (AUN) recalled his lifelong dedication to education, which began with establishing a nursery and primary school, later expanding to secondary education and culminating in founding a university.
“The greatest investment any government or individual can make is in education,” he said, emphasizing its role in national development, unity, and social stability. He noted that educated citizens are less vulnerable to manipulation by divisive forces.
Atiku praised Pacesetters’ founder, Barrister Kenneth Imansuangbon, for his investment in quality education and urged him to consider expanding into university education. “I commend this noble cause and challenge Pacesetters to grow into a full-fledged university,” he said.
Congratulating the graduating class, Atiku expressed joy at seeing some of his own former students among the graduates. “Thank you for inviting me to this historic occasion. It aligns perfectly with my lifelong passion. After retirement, I look forward to going back to school,” he added.
He also shared a personal anecdote from 1961, when American Peace Corps teachers came to his secondary school in Northern Nigeria after the departure of British teachers. That experience, he said, had a lasting impact and inspired him to adopt an American-style curriculum in his own educational institutions.
In his remarks, the school’s founder, Barr. Kenneth Imansuangbon, underscored the transformative power of education, stating that Pacesetters’ Schools aim to produce independent thinkers capable of creating opportunities rather than relying on traditional employment.
The graduation ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Senator Augustine Akobundu (Abia Central), Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal (wife of the Zamfara State Governor), and former Labour Party Chairman, Dan Nwanyanwu.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of a special award to Mrs. Elizabeth Imansuangbon, mother of the school’s chairman, in recognition of her contributions to education and society.
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