University Of Maiduguri Renamed In Honour Of Late President Buhari.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the renaming of the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University, paying tribute to the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. The decision was revealed during a special session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held in Abuja on Thursday, 17 July 2025, dedicated to honouring Buhari’s legacy.
The renaming follows the passing of Buhari, who died on Sunday, 13 July 2025, at the age of 82 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. His body was returned to Nigeria and laid to rest in his private residence in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday, 15 July, with dignitaries, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, in attendance. The FEC’s decision reflects Buhari’s significant contributions to Nigeria, both as a military leader from 1984 to 1985 and as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.
Buhari, described by Tinubu as a patriot and statesman, was celebrated for his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress. The University of Maiduguri, a prominent federal institution in Borno State, was chosen for this honour due to its significance in Nigeria’s northeast, a region closely associated with Buhari’s legacy. Established in 1975, the university is one of the country’s leading higher education institutions, enrolling approximately 25,000 students across 12 faculties, including medicine, agriculture, and conflict resolution studies.
The announcement has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria. Supporters of the move view it as a fitting tribute to Buhari’s dedication to national development, particularly his efforts to combat insurgency in the northeast during his presidency. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the timing and necessity of the renaming, citing ongoing economic challenges facing the nation.
Vice President Shettima, speaking at a prayer session for Buhari in Daura, described the late president’s death as a profound loss to Nigeria and the African continent. He urged Nigerians to uphold Buhari’s values of transparency, honesty, and accountability in governance. Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda echoed these sentiments, calling on leaders to sustain Buhari’s legacy.
As part of the national mourning period, Tinubu directed that flags be flown at half-mast for seven days, and a public holiday was declared on 15 July to honour Buhari’s contributions. The renaming of the university marks a lasting memorial to a leader whose tenure shaped Nigeria’s recent history.
The University of Maiduguri, now Muhammadu Buhari University, continues to play a vital role in the region, notably standing resilient against challenges such as Boko Haram attacks in the past. The institution’s renaming is expected to inspire future generations to emulate Buhari’s commitment to service and national unity.
