Among other things, Abubakar is very interested in the state of Nigerian education. In 2005, he established the American University of Nigeria in the capital of Adamawa State, Yola. The university uses American style to teach, has small classes and places emphasis on critical thinking and student participation. It even has received recognition from Google!
In 2013, Atiku was the sponsor of an essay contest for students, the goal of which was to gain a new perspective on resolving the challenges of Nigerian education. He also issued scholarships to 15 victims of the Chibok kidnapping to help them receive the education they deserve and improve the situation with education in Northeastern Nigeria.
Before you go, take a minute to learn some fascinating facts about Atiku Abubakar.
Short Atiku Abubakar profile: ten facts you need to know
Apart from being one of the richest men in Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar is also a very interesting person. Here are ten things you should know about him:
- Atiku Abubakar was born on November 25, 1946 in Jada. Back then, it was a village in the Northern Region of British Nigeria. It is now a part of Adamawa State.
- He is named after his grandfather on his father’s side, Atiku Abdulkadir. It was customary among Fulani people that Atiku grew up among to name their first sons after paternal grandfathers.
- He is an only child in his family.
- Atiku’s father did not want his son to be ‘corrupted’ by Western education, so he did not let him go to school for a while. When this was discovered, Atiku’s father had to spend several days in jail.
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