The decision of the Federal Government to rename the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) after former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, has sparked protests from the university’s alumni and students.
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While announcing the rename of UniAbuja after Gowon, the federal executive council said the decision was taken to honour the former leader under whose administration the country fought against secession in 1967.
The alumni association rejected the renaming of the university, dismissing it as “a right step in the wrong direction.”
Students of the university equally expressed their opposition. They staged a peaceful protest and launched an online petition that has secured thousands of signatures.
Reasons given by the alumni association for rejecting the renaming of the university include concerns about the destruction of the university’s legacy, the financial costs, and logistical challenges.
The alumni association has already submitted letters to President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the national assembly, the minister of education, and the executive secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) to express their opposition and propose alternative solutions.
The association however acknowledged Gowon’s contributions to national unity even as it said that renaming the university would undermine its branding efforts, complicate administrative processes, and diminish its accumulated prestige.
In the letter to the government, the association noted that Gowon could be honoured by renaming public structures such as Eagle Square after him or establishing a new institution or research centre in his name.
The alumni association explained that the name “University of Abuja” reflects the institution’s geographical and national identity, symbolising the convergence of Nigeria’s diverse cultures and histories.
The alumni urged the government to focus on strengthening the university rather than renaming it, warning that the move could erode the sense of pride and identity among alumni, students, and staff. The association also criticised the lack of consultation and public involvement in the decision-making process, describing it as a “top-down imposition.”
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