The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has rejected the Federal Government’s decision to rename the institution after former President Muhammadu Buhari.
ASUU described the move as “politically motivated” and a “brazen affront” to the university’s legacy, saying Buhari does not reflect the values and identity that UNIMAID has built over the years.
“This action is not merely shocking; it desecrates the sanctity of our alma mater,” said Dr. Abubakar Mshelia Saidu, chairperson of the union at UNIMAID. “UNIMAID is not just a name—it represents decades of academic excellence, resilience, and national relevance.”
The announcement was made during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on July 17 held in honour of Buhari, where President Bola Tinubu declared the university would be renamed after the former president.
ASUU said the decision disrespects the university’s history and undermines its academic identity, especially as the institution marks its 50th anniversary.
“The name change threatens to erase a hard-earned identity that has endured for half a century,” the union said.
Dr. Saidu said the union was mobilising its congress, veterans, and extended executive members to oppose the move.
“The response of the union will be unequivocal, forceful, and commanding,” he said, calling on Nigerians to contribute ideas and facts as wider consultations continue.
ASUU urged the public to resist what it called a “dangerous precedent” that places political reward above the legacy of academic institutions.
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