The University of Maiduguri chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has firmly opposed the Federal Government’s decision to rename the institution after the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a statement issued by the chapter chairman, Dr. Abubakar Mshelia Saidu, ASUU described the move as “politically motivated” and a “brazen affront” to the university’s legacy, history, and academic identity.
The renaming was announced during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on July 17 in honour of Buhari.
However, the decision has sparked widespread criticism, both within the university and nationwide.
“The action is not merely shocking; it desecrates the sanctity of our alma mater,” the union stated, adding that it was especially disheartening as the institution prepares to mark its 50th anniversary under the respected ‘UNIMAID’ identity.
ASUU warned that the university’s hard-earned reputation was being sacrificed for political patronage, and said it had begun mobilising its Congress, veterans, and extended executive council to resist the move.
The union emphasized that its response would be “unequivocal, forceful, and commanding,” while calling on members and the wider public to contribute perspectives ahead of its next deliberations.
“We must articulate our adamant opposition and demand the immediate reversal of this ill-conceived and deeply offensive decision,” the statement read.
Founded in 1975, the University of Maiduguri is one of Nigeria’s foremost federal institutions, widely respected for maintaining academic excellence despite insecurity challenges in the North-east.
Critics of the renaming note that several public institutions in Borno State have already been named after Buhari, arguing that this additional honour is unnecessary and could deepen divisions.
