Atiku Defends American University of Nigeria as Almajiri Crisis Response

Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice President, responded this week to social media criticism by outlining his work on out-of-school children and street begging in northern Nigeria. Through several posts, he emphasized his dedication to education, particularly through founding the American University of Nigeria (AUN) located in Yola, Adamawa State.

He characterized this institution as a deliberate response to the Almajiri crisis and its consequences for vulnerable groups across the region. When explaining why Yola was selected instead of more lucrative cities like Abuja or Lagos, Abubakar highlighted what his choice demonstrates about his actual priorities.

Commercial advantage would have guided his decision if profit were paramount, he argued. By transferring institutional ownership to residents, the former Vice President demonstrated that collective benefit—rather than personal advantage—motivated the venture.

This transfer, presented through a deed of gift, underscored his framing of community welfare as the true driver. A user on social media had previously pressed Abubakar on concrete measures undertaken during his eight years as Vice President to curb child begging across the North.

His response treated such sights as concerns requiring every Nigerian's attention. He referenced two specific programmes supported by AUN—Feed and Read, alongside Technology-Enhanced Learning for All—linking them to the institution's broader commitment to social responsibility.

As the 2027 presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abubakar presented his record as evidence of sustained commitment toward education and backing disadvantaged youth. His public remarks come amid wider Nigerian discussion on out-of-school children and Almajiri practices, with particular emphasis placed on solutions addressing educational gaps in northern communities.