Alumni, students, and concerned citizens of Borno State have strongly opposed the decision to rename the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University. The renaming was announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to immortalize the former President.
In a public petition gaining momentum online, stakeholders argued that the University of Maiduguri—commonly known as UNIMAID—represents more than an academic institution. According to them, the name embodies resilience, academic excellence, and cultural identity, especially given its survival and relevance throughout the insurgency crisis in the North-East region.
The petitioners emphasized that UNIMAID has, for over four decades, produced leaders, scholars, and professionals who proudly associate with the institution’s legacy. They believe renaming it would diminish the historic and emotional significance attached to the university by its students, alumni, and community.
Rather than UNIMAID, the petition recommends other institutions that better reflect the late President Muhammadu Buhari’s personal and professional background. These include:
Federal University of Transportation, Daura, located in his hometown
Nigerian Army University, Biu, which aligns with his military career
Over 9,000 Sign Petition in 48 Hours
In less than 48 hours, over 9,000 people have signed the online petition titled “Preserve the Identity of the University of Maiduguri.”” The campaign continues to trend across social media platforms, signalling widespread public interest and concern.
The petition respectfully calls on President Tinubu to reconsider the decision and preserve the name “University of Maiduguri” as a symbol of educational heritage and national pride. It also appeals for thoughtful stakeholder engagement in any move that affects public institutions of such historical importance.
As the debate continues, many Nigerians believe a more inclusive approach to renaming public institutions is necessary—one that honours national heroes without compromising long-standing legacies.
