UNIMAID Alumni, Students Say No to Buhari Rename

Graduates, current students of the University of Maiduguri, and several concerned residents of Borno State have voiced strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s decision to rename the institution as Muhammadu Buhari University, a move intended to honour the former Nigerian president.

The announcement came on Thursday, July 17, 2025, during an expanded Federal Executive Council meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where President Tinubu revealed the renaming initiative as part of efforts to immortalize Buhari’s legacy.

Critics of the change argue that the University of Maiduguri stands as more than a mere title—it represents a legacy of academic distinction, cultural pride, and unwavering resilience, particularly amid the security challenges that once engulfed the North-East.

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In light of this, the groups suggested that President Tinubu consider renaming either the Federal University of Transportation in Daura or the Nigerian Army University in Biu in honour of the former president, citing his ancestral roots and military background as more fitting connections.

This proposal was outlined in a public petition aimed at rallying widespread support for the protest initiated by alumni and student bodies.

In just 48 hours, nearly 9,000 individuals have signed a fast-growing petition opposing the renaming of the University of Maiduguri, reflecting widespread public support for the cause led by students and alumni.

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Excerpt from the Petition:

Title:
Safeguard the Legacy of the University of Maiduguri – A Respectful Plea Against Renaming It Muhammadu Buhari University

Addressed To:
His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Federal Republic of Nigeria

The Appeal:
We, the undersigned—comprising alumni, current students, and concerned citizens—write with deep respect and a united voice to express our opposition to the proposed renaming of the University of Maiduguri after the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

While we acknowledge and honour the significant role the former president played in Nigeria’s history, we believe that altering the name of this esteemed institution is not aligned with the sentiments of its core community. The University of Maiduguri is not just an educational institution; it is a historic symbol of perseverance, academic leadership, and cultural identity—particularly for the North-East, a region that has endured immense hardship due to insecurity.

For over four decades, this university has nurtured generations of leaders, intellectuals, and professionals who proudly carry its name. “UNIMAID” holds deep emotional and historical value for its community, and its name has become synonymous with resilience and national service across Africa and beyond.

Our Request:
We humbly urge Your Excellency to reconsider this renaming decision. There are alternative ways to honour the legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari without erasing the identity of an institution so deeply embedded in the heart of a region and its people.

Specifically, we propose that institutions more closely tied to Buhari’s personal and professional legacy—such as the Federal University of Transportation in Daura or the Nigerian Army University in Biu—be considered instead. Daura, his hometown, offers symbolic significance, while the military university aligns with his career as a former general and Head of State.

This request is not political. It is a heartfelt appeal to preserve the heritage of a university that has weathered conflict and change, while still finding a meaningful way to recognize a former national leader.

We trust in your leadership, your commitment to national unity, and your willingness to listen to the voices of those most directly connected to the institution.

Thank you, Your Excellency.