The Federal Ministry of Education has lauded President Bola Tinubu’s decision to rename the University of Maiduguri in Borno State after the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Ministry views the renaming as an honour, establishing its sector as the permanent channel for enshrining Buhari’s legacy, particularly in human capital development.
The Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa disclosed this in a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, and posted on the Ministry’s official X handle.
This announcement comes amidst varied reactions from the Nigerian public following Tinubu’s directive on Thursday to rename the 50-year-old institution.
While some Nigerians have voiced objections to the name change, others have embraced it as a fitting tribute to Buhari, who once served as military governor of the state.
Minister Alausa, in the statement, highlighted key achievements of Buhari’s administration (2015-2023), including notable reforms in national security, anti-corruption, infrastructure, agriculture, and human capital development – including the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, TSA, ERGP, and social investment schemes – which significantly contributed to national progress.
The Minister expressed his deep honour at the ministry being chosen as the means through which the late President’s legacy will be permanently preserved.
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According to him, Tinubu’s decision reflects profound empathy, respect, and a firm conviction in the foundational role of education for national development.
Alausa emphasised that Tinubu’s commitment to human capital development remains unwavering and aligns with the path of national renewal that Buhari championed.
The symbolic gesture, Alausa added, underscored the current administration’s recognition of education as a vital cornerstone for sustainable national development and identity.
He reiterated the ministry’s dedication to upholding the “values of service, integrity, and excellence” exemplified by both the late Buhari and Tinubu.
Buhari, who served two terms as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023, previously was the nation’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985.
He died at a clinic in London on July 13, at the age of 82.
His remains were subsequently brought back to Nigeria and received a state funeral, being interred at his residence in Daura, Katsina State.
