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Breaking: UniAbuja Renamed to Honour Former Head of State Yakubu Gowon – See Why

By Achimi Muktar

In a surprising move that has stirred reactions nationwide, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially renamed the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University in honour of Nigeria's former Head of State and elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon.

The announcement came shortly after the FEC meeting, presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa. Speaking to State House correspondents, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, revealed that the decision was a deliberate step to celebrate and immortalize the legacy of the revered former leader.

“Renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University is a fitting tribute to a man who has contributed immensely to the unity and development of our great nation,” Idris stated.

General Yakubu Gowon, who served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1966 to 1975, is often celebrated for his role in preserving national unity during the country’s turbulent civil war era. His enduring legacy as a statesman and advocate for peace continues to resonate with generations of Nigerians.

The renaming of the University of Abuja, a leading federal institution known for its academic excellence and strategic location in the nation’s capital, signals a broader move to recognize icons of Nigeria’s history.

This decision has sparked mixed reactions across social media and the public sphere, with many applauding the government’s efforts to honour national heroes, while others question whether renaming institutions is the best approach to preserving their legacy.