The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) chapter, has announced its intention to sue the Federal Government of Nigeria over the controversial decision to rename the institution after the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The union has described the move, announced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, as “politically motivated” and a “flagrant disregard for university autonomy.”
In a statement released on Friday, jointly signed by ASUU-UNIMAID Chairperson Dr. Abubakar Mshelia and Assistant Secretary Peter Teri, the union revealed that the resolution to pursue legal action was reached during an emergency congress held on July 24, 2025.
The congress, attended by ASUU members, representatives of the Student Union Government, and other stakeholders, unanimously condemned the renaming of the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri.
“Following extensive discussions, the congress resolved to vehemently reject and strongly condemn the decision,” the statement read.
“This ill-conceived and arbitrary move disrupts cherished academic traditions and undermines the collective heritage and identity of our university community.”
The union further criticized the government for failing to consult the university’s stakeholders, alumni, or the public before making the announcement during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on July 17, 2025, held in honor of Buhari, who passed away earlier this month.
The University of Maiduguri, established in 1975, is one of Nigeria’s leading federal institutions, renowned for its academic excellence and resilience despite security challenges in the North-East.
ASUU argues that renaming the institution jeopardizes its 50-year legacy and could have far-reaching implications for its alumni, academic affiliations, and international recognition.
“The reputation built under the UNIMAID brand is now at risk,” Dr. Mshelia stated, noting that certificates, transcripts, and professional affiliations tied to the university’s original name could face complications.Public reaction has been mixed.
While some, including the current and former Student Union Government presidents, have praised the renaming as a tribute to Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria, many others, including alumni and social media users, have voiced strong opposition.
Critics argue that several institutions in Borno State already bear Buhari’s name, rendering the decision unnecessary and divisive.
ASUU-UNIMAID has mandated its executive committee to explore all legal avenues to challenge the renaming and preserve the university’s original identity.
The union also called on its national leadership, zonal bodies, and other branches to resist any legislative moves to formalize the name change.
“Public universities must remain insulated from political interference,” the statement emphasized.
As the legal battle looms, the controversy has sparked a broader debate about the autonomy of Nigeria’s academic institutions and the legacy of political figures in shaping public infrastructure.
The outcome of ASUU’s lawsuit could set a precedent for how renaming decisions are handled in Nigeria’s education sector.
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