- Education Ministry says Buhari’s legacy in education informed decision
- Tinubu approved renaming during special FEC session honouring Buhari
- Alumni, students demand reversal to protect university’s 40-year identity
The Federal Ministry of Education has explained that the University of Maiduguri was renamed after late former President Muhammadu Buhari in recognition of his unwavering commitment to education and national development.
In a statement released on Friday by the Ministry’s Director of Press, Mrs Folasade Boriowo, the decision was confirmed to have received President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval during a special Federal Executive Council session held to honour Buhari’s legacy.
The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa, described the renaming as a symbolic act that immortalises Buhari’s contributions to national security, institutional reform, economic recovery and anti-corruption initiatives.
“This decision reflects the President’s empathy and respect for the late leader, as well as his belief in education as the bedrock of national development,” the statement read.
The ministry further highlighted Buhari’s achievements, including the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, Treasury Single Account, Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, and various social investment schemes, as justification for the gesture.
President Tinubu reportedly led the FEC session with a moving tribute to Buhari, while dignitaries including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas joined to commend the late president’s service. Buhari’s son, Yusuf, spoke on behalf of the family during the ceremony.
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Meanwhile, a growing number of alumni and students have expressed opposition to the renaming, arguing that UNIMAID’s name represents resilience and regional pride. They insist on broader consultations and have called on Tinubu to consider other ways to honour Buhari without altering the university’s historic identity.
The Federal Government has yet to directly respond to the public backlash.
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