Maiduguri, Nigeria July 19, 2025
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the University of Maiduguri has vehemently rejected the Federal Government’s decision to rename the institution after the late former President Muhammadu Buhari. President Bola Tinubu announced the change on July 17 during an expanded Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja, prompting a wave of public condemnation and fueling a growing national debate.
Under the new directive, the University of Maiduguri is to be known as Muhammadu Buhari University, in honor of the former president who passed away earlier this month. President Tinubu, while announcing the change, described Buhari as “a good man” whose legacy of integrity should be immortalized. The university joins other institutions, such as the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Borno State, that have been renamed to honor the late leader.
However, ASUU has criticized the decision as politically motivated and lacking in merit. In a strongly worded statement released on July 19, the UNIMAID ASUU chapter described the renaming as “an ill-advised move driven by political expediency.” The union emphasized the institution’s five decades of resilience and academic excellence, particularly in the face of Boko Haram insurgency and insecurity in the North-East, insisting that its legacy should not be altered for political patronage.
Academic and Public Backlash
The renaming has ignited fierce criticism both within the academic community and among the public. Critics point to President Buhari’s contentious relationship with the academic sector, notably the prolonged ASUU strikes during his administration, and question the appropriateness of naming an academic institution after him.
Many have taken to social media to express their disapproval. Comments highlight Buhari’s alleged lack of academic credentials and accuse his government of undermining higher education during his tenure. Some alumni and students of the University of Maiduguri have openly rejected the change, with many vowing never to associate themselves with the new name.
Dr. Umar Ardo, a political commentator, criticized the renaming in a widely circulated analysis, arguing that Buhari had no historical, academic, or emotional connection to the institution. “He did not attend, teach at, or found the university, nor did he leave any indelible mark on its development,” Ardo stated.
A 2017 study by the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research found that 68% of Nigerians oppose the renaming of public institutions for political reasons, citing concerns over cultural erosion and historical revisionism — sentiments echoed by many in this current debate.
Government’s Justification
The Tinubu administration has defended its action, framing it as a tribute to Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process, particularly his role in the 2015 peaceful transfer of power. However, critics argue that the decision ignores Buhari’s strained legacy in the education sector and risks further alienating academics and students.
Observers note that this move fits into a global trend of politically motivated renamings, often seen as symbolic gestures rather than substantive reforms. Examples cited include “freedom fries” during the Iraq War and changes to place names during political conflicts.
What Next for ASUU and UNIMAID?
ASUU has hinted at possible industrial actions if the renaming is not reversed, warning of “unequivocal, forceful, and commanding” measures. Public sentiment appears largely aligned with the union, further intensifying the controversy.
As of press time, the government has not indicated any plans to reconsider its decision. The situation continues to unfold amid heightened scrutiny and growing public outrage.
Conclusion
This controversy touches on broader themes of legacy, academic independence, and political overreach. With no resolution in sight, the University of Maiduguri — now controversially known as Muhammadu Buhari University — finds itself at the center of a national debate over how Nigeria chooses to honor its leaders.
