Alumni, students, and concerned citizens of Borno State have openly rejected President Bola Tinubu’s decision to rename the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The renaming was announced on Thursday, July 17, 2025, during an expanded Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
President Tinubu said the move was part of efforts to immortalize the late Nigerian leader.
However, this decision has drawn strong opposition from stakeholders, who argue that the University of Maiduguri is more than just a name, it stands as a symbol of resilience, cultural identity, and academic excellence, particularly in the face of the insecurity that has plagued the North-East region.
In response, alumni and student groups have launched a public petition, which has garnered nearly 9,000 signatures within 48 hours.
The petition appeals directly to the President to reconsider the decision.
“The University of Maiduguri is more than just a name. It is a powerful symbol of resilience, academic excellence, and cultural heritage — especially in the face of insecurity that once threatened the North-East region,” the petition reads.
The petitioners emphasized that for over four decades, the institution has trained leaders and scholars across Nigeria and beyond, and its name carries deep emotional and symbolic value.
“The name ‘University of Maiduguri’ resonates deeply with the people it serves and reflects the institution’s strategic importance in national development, peacebuilding, and intellectual advancement in Northern Nigeria.”
While recognizing former President Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria, the groups urged President Tinubu to consider alternative ways to honour him, including renaming newer or more personally linked institutions.
“We believe his name can be immortalized through alternative national monuments, research institutes, or legacy projects that will not alter the historic identity of a university so beloved by its community.”
Two specific institutions were suggested: the Federal University of Transportation in Daura, Buhari’s hometown, and the Nigerian Army University in Biu, which reflects his military background.
“Considering his background as a retired military general, the Nigerian Army University Biu stands out as another fitting institution that could be renamed in honour of the Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari.”
The signatories stressed that their appeal is not political, but rather a plea rooted in history, heritage, and emotional attachment.
“Preserving this name is not a political position; it is a plea for continuity, emotional attachment, and the integrity of a brand that has stood the test of time and conflict. Let us honour both the legacy of former President Buhari and the soul of UNIMAID — without erasing the identity of either.”
They called on President Tinubu to engage stakeholders and make a decision that preserves national unity and institutional legacy.
