By Muhammad Mamman
In a bold move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on 17 July 2025, during an expanded Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the decision to rename the University of Maiduguri as Muhammadu Buhari University, honouring the late former Nigerian leader.
However, this proposal has sparked fervent opposition from the university’s alumni, students, and concerned citizens of Borno State, who have united in a powerful campaign to preserve the institution’s historic identity.
The University of Maiduguri, a beacon of academic excellence and resilience, stands as a symbol of hope in Nigeria’s North-East, a region once beleaguered by insecurity.
Critics argue that its name embodies far more than a title—it represents a legacy of intellectual achievement, cultural heritage, and unwavering fortitude. A public petition, rapidly gaining traction with over 9,000 signatures in just 48 hours, underscores the depth of sentiment surrounding the issue.
In their impassioned appeal to President Tinubu, the petitioners expressed profound respect for the late President Muhammadu Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria but urged reconsideration of the renaming.
They propose alternative tributes, such as renaming the Federal University of Transportation in Daura—Buhari’s hometown—or the Nigerian Army University in Biu, reflecting his military background. These options, they argue, would honour Buhari’s legacy without erasing the cherished identity of the University of Maiduguri, affectionately known as UNIMAID.
“For over four decades, UNIMAID has shaped leaders, scholars, and patriots who carry its name with pride across Africa and beyond,” the petition states. “Its identity is a cornerstone of national development and peacebuilding in Northern Nigeria.”
The campaign emphasises that preserving the university’s name is not a political stance but a heartfelt plea to safeguard a brand forged through time and adversity. As the debate intensifies, the nation awaits President Tinubu’s response, trusting in his commitment to unity and stakeholder engagement.
Petition Excerpt: A Respectful Appeal to Preserve UNIMAID’s Identity
To His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
We, the alumni, students, and concerned citizens of the University of Maiduguri, humbly appeal for the reversal of the decision to rename our beloved institution Muhammadu Buhari University. While we hold the late President Buhari’s legacy in high esteem, the name “University of Maiduguri” is a powerful emblem of resilience, academic distinction, and cultural pride.
We respectfully suggest renaming the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, or the Nigerian Army University, Biu, as fitting tributes to Buhari’s heritage and service. Let us honour his memory while preserving the soul of UNIMAID—a name synonymous with excellence and endurance.
We trust in Your Excellency’s wisdom to uphold the aspirations of this vibrant community.
