By Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, Adamawa State, launched its Law Clinic on Wednesday, 9 April 2025, to provide free legal services to poor and underserved community members.
Professor Mohammed Bello Magaji, Dean of AUN’s School of Law, said the clinic reflects the university’s mission of community service, ethical leadership, and transformative education. Speaking at the launch, he told our correspondent, “The idea behind the Law Clinic is grounded in the core mission of AUN. Today, we take a bold step in translating that mission into real, practical action by creating a space where knowledge meets justice; where learning extends beyond the classroom and into the lives of those who need it most.”
He explained its purpose. “The AUN Law Clinic is designed to offer free legal services to indigent and underserved members of our community—those who are often without access to legal representation or knowledge of their rights,” Magaji said. “It will be staffed by our dedicated students, under the close supervision of experienced faculty, and in partnership with key institutions in the justice delivery system.”
He added, “Through this clinic, our students will learn the true meaning of law as a tool for service, advocacy, and justice.”
Magaji welcomed key attendees, including representatives from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, the National Human Rights Commission, FIDA, the Nigerian Correctional Service, legal professionals, civil society groups, and community leaders. “Your presence here affirms the relevance of this initiative, and we look forward to working closely with you as partners in justice,” he said. He thanked AUN’s leadership, students, and faculty for their support in making the clinic a reality.
Stakeholders at the event praised the initiative. “They commended the Dean and the School of Law, just as they agreed that justice will surely move closer to the poor and indigent members of society,” Magaji noted.