ASUU UNIMAID Rejects Tinubu’s Move To Rename University After Buhari, Calls It Political Hijack

The University of Maiduguri chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has strongly opposed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to rename the institution after late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as politically motivated and deeply misguided.

In a statement obtained by SaharaReporters on Saturday, ASUU Chairperson Abubakar Mshelia Saidu described the move as a “brazen affront” to the institution’s legacy, identity, and academic integrity. He announced the union’s plan to urgently mobilize its veterans, extended executive council, and Congress members to resist what it calls an “ill-advised” decision.

The controversial renaming was announced during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held in Buhari’s honour at the Presidential Villa on July 17, 2025. President Tinubu stated that the decision was to recognize Buhari’s contributions to national development.

However, the announcement triggered widespread backlash across Nigeria, including among Buhari’s own supporters, with many pointing to the numerous institutions already named after him—especially in Borno State.

ASUU’s statement read:
“This action is not merely shocking; it represents a brazen affront to the sanctity of our alma mater, especially given its impending historic 50th anniversary under the globally recognized and deeply cherished ‘Unimaid’ brand.”

Describing the renaming as “political patronage taken too far,” the union insisted that the university’s legacy—built over five decades through resilience in the face of regional insecurity and terrorism—must not be reduced to a political gift.

The union warned that its reaction would be “unequivocal, forceful, and commanding,” as it prepares to formally oppose the decision at the upcoming Congress, Zonal, and NEC meetings.

“The legacy of Unimaid, painstakingly built for five decades, will not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency,” the statement emphasized.

Founded in 1975, the University of Maiduguri stands as one of Nigeria’s leading federal institutions. ASUU UNIMAID vowed not to allow its history and name to be erased or replaced to serve any political narrative, urging stakeholders to unite in defense of the university’s identity.