Backlash as Tinubu Renames University of Maiduguri After Late Buhari

President Bola Tinubu’s decision to rename the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) after the late President Muhammadu Buhari has ignited widespread backlash across Nigeria.

The announcement, made during a special Federal Executive Council session held in Buhari’s honor, was met with disapproval from both critics and supporters of the former president.

Many Nigerians argue that too many public institutions in Borno State already bear Buhari’s name, including the state airport, a mega school, a conference hall, and several buildings within UNIMAID itself. Social media has since been flooded with comments opposing the change, with some describing it as excessive and unnecessary.

One prominent voice, Ibn Maigana a known Buhari supporter criticized the renaming on Facebook, saying many Borno residents are displeased with the move, despite their respect for Buhari. Others, like Kashim Sheriff and Natasha Alexander, raised concerns about the academic and emotional implications for current students and alumni, especially regarding certificate validity and institutional identity.

Activist Shehu Sani also weighed in, warning about the growing trend of renaming institutions, suggesting that soon all schools might bear the names of politicians.

An alumni group, Concerned UNIMAID Alumni Association/Friends of UNIMAID, issued a strong statement rejecting the renaming. They called the university a historic institution with deep academic and regional significance, arguing that a better way to honor Buhari would be to establish a new university or research center in his name.

President Buhari passed away on July 13, 2025, in London, and was buried on July 15 in Daura, Katsina State.

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