Outcry Grows as FG Moves to Rename UNIMAID After Buhari

A rising wave of opposition is trailing the federal government’s decision to rename the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) as Muhammadu Buhari University, sparking widespread backlash from alumni, students, and concerned Nigerians.

In a strongly worded open letter circulating across social and traditional media, stakeholders urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to halt the renaming process, citing the institution’s rich history, legacy, and emotional significance to the Northeast region.

While acknowledging the contributions of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, the petitioners — led by activist and alumnus Opeyemi Olatinwo — argued that the change would erode over four decades of identity and academic heritage.

“UNIMAID is more than a name; it is a symbol of resilience, academic excellence, and regional pride,” the petition reads. The statement emphasized the university’s continued operation during the height of the Boko Haram insurgency, describing it as “a beacon of hope” that stood firm amid crisis.

The petition, which has garnered thousands of signatures, including endorsements from notable alumni and current students, insists that the proposed renaming does not reflect the views of the university’s primary stakeholders or the broader Nigerian public.

Instead of renaming UNIMAID, the group suggested alternatives such as the Federal University of Transportation in Daura — Buhari’s hometown — or the Nigerian Army University in Biu, aligning more closely with the former leader’s military and leadership legacy.

“This is not a political protest,” the petition clarified. “It is a heartfelt plea for continuity and the preservation of a name that has survived conflict and nurtured generations.”

As of Friday, the appeal has gained significant traction online, with over 1,500 new signatories adding their voices in just 24 hours.

Supporters of the university’s current name called on President Tinubu to exercise sensitivity and fairness by reconsidering the decision and engaging in inclusive consultation on matters of national and cultural importance.