UNIMAID alumni, students oppose renaming of university after Buhari

President Bola Tinubu’s suggestion to rename the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) as Muhammadu Buhari University, in tribute to the former president, has been met with strong opposition from the institution’s alumni, current students, and concerned residents of Borno State.

It will be recalled that Tinubu announced this during an expanded Federal Executive Council meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

According to President Tinubu, the proposed renaming of UNIMAID to Muhammadu Buhari University was intended to honour the late Nigerian leader for his service and contributions to the nation’s progress.

However, the announcement has triggered widespread objection, particularly among former students, undergraduates, and residents of Maiduguri, who maintain that the current name of the university carries significant historical meaning and reflects the identity, endurance, and culture of the region.

In making their case, they proposed that President Tinubu consider renaming either the Federal University of Transportation in Daura or the Army University in Biu after the late president, given his roots in Daura and his background in military service.

This position was detailed in a public petition that called for public support and asked Nigerians to endorse the protest initiated by alumni and student groups.

The petition stated, “Preserve the identity of the University of Maiduguri – A respectful appeal against renaming University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University”

It continued, “His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

“We, the alumni, students, and concerned citizens, write this heartfelt appeal to Your Excellency regarding the recent decision to rename the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University.”

“With the deepest respect to the memory and legacy of the late President Muhammadu Buhari — a man whose contributions to Nigeria remain indelible — we believe that renaming the University of Maiduguri does not align with the sentiments of its core stakeholders and the enduring identity the institution has built over the decades.”

“The University of Maiduguri is more than just a name. It is a powerful symbol of resilience, academic excellence, and cultural heritage, especially in the face of insecurity that once threatened the North-East region. The name ‘University of Maiduguri’ resonates deeply with the people it serves and reflects the institution’s strategic importance in national development, peacebuilding, and intellectual advancement in Northern Nigeria.”

“For over 40 years, this great institution has produced leaders, scholars, diplomats, scientists, and patriots who proudly identify as UNIMAID alumni. Its name is a source of pride not just in Nigeria but across Africa and the global academic community.”

“We respectfully request Your Excellency to reconsider and reverse the renaming of the University of Maiduguri. While we hold the memory of President Muhammadu Buhari in high regard, we believe his name can be immortalised through alternative national monuments, research institutes, or legacy projects that will not alter the historic identity of a university so beloved by its community.”

“In this regard, we respectfully propose that the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, a relatively new and highly symbolic institution located in former President Buhari’s hometown, could be considered for renaming. This would serve as a more fitting tribute, rooted in personal legacy, regional pride, and national relevance. Also, considering his background as a retired military general, the Nigerian Army University Biu, stands out as another fitting institution that could be renamed in honour of the Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari. It reflects both his military heritage and his contributions to national leadership.”

“Preserving this name is not a political position; it is a plea for continuity, emotional attachment, and the integrity of a brand that has stood the test of time and conflict. Let us honour both the legacy of former President Buhari and the soul of UNIMAID, without erasing the identity of either.”

“We trust in your wisdom, fairness, and commitment to national unity and stakeholder engagement. Thank you, Your Excellency.”

So far, nearly nine thousand individuals have signed the petition, which has gained widespread attention on social media over the past two days.