The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has strongly rejected the Federal Government’s decision to rename the institution after former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as politically driven and an affront to the university’s legacy.
In a statement issued in Maiduguri on Sunday, the ASUU branch chairperson, Abubakar Saidu, condemned the renaming as a move that undermines the university’s rich history and academic identity.
“This action is not merely shocking; it desecrates the sanctity of our alma mater,” the union said.
“UNIMAID is not just a name, it represents decades of academic excellence, resilience, and national relevance.”
President Bola Tinubu had announced the renaming of the institution during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Thursday July 17, in honour of former President Buhari.
The announcement was part of broader tributes to Buhari, who died on Sunday July 13 and was buried two days later in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State.
But the move has drawn backlash from the academic community, particularly at UNIMAID, where the ASUU leadership says the decision threatens to erase a 50-year-old legacy built on merit, scholarship and service to the nation.
As UNIMAID prepares to celebrate its golden jubilee, ASUU says the timing and motive behind the renaming are inappropriate and disrespectful.
“UNIMAID is not a political souvenir to be handed out,” Mr Saidu said.
“Political interests must not be allowed to override the nation’s educational heritage.”
The union further disclosed that it is mobilising its congress, veterans and extended executive members to take a strong stand against the decision.
“The response of the union will be unequivocal, forceful, and commanding,” Saidu said, adding that wider consultations are underway.
ASUU also called on Nigerians, particularly scholars, alumni and civil society to resist what it termed a dangerous precedent that places political patronage above academic pride.
“This is a time for national reflection, not political branding,” the union noted.
The controversy has sparked fresh debate over how public institutions are named and whether such decisions reflect historical merit or political loyalty.
