Vanguard News
The Federal Executive Council, FEC, recently announced its decision to rename the University of Abuja, UNIABUJA, after General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s Head of State from 1966 to 1975, in recognition of his contributions to national development.
As the proposal awaits approval by the National Assembly, this move rekindles conversations about renaming universities after prominent figures.
I sold wristwatch, did okada, keke work; now I have fame but no money — Angel Babaorobo, Skit Maker0:00 / 0:00
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Originally named the University of Ife, the institution was renamed in 1987 after Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the late sage who played a pivotal role in its establishment.
Awolowo’s contributions to education and development in Western Nigeria ensured widespread acceptance of the name change.
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture
The Federal University of Agriculture, Umudike, was renamed after Michael Okpara, the Premier of the Eastern Region in the First Republic.
Okpara’s legacy in Abia State and the region made the renaming under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration a smooth transition.
Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH)
Formerly the Federal University of Technology, Yola, this institution was renamed after Modibbo Adama, a prominent figure from Adamawa State, during Jonathan’s tenure.
Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo
Following the death of Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Nigeria’s Second Republic Vice President, the Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, was renamed in his honour during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
Despite Ekwueme being from Anambra State, the renaming was well received.
Renaming Attempts That Failed
Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE)
During the funeral of General Adeyinka Adebayo, former Military Governor of the Western State, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo announced plans to rename FUOYE after Adebayo.
However, resistance from various quarters in Ekiti State led to the proposal being shelved.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG)
In 2012, President Goodluck Jonathan proposed renaming UNILAG after Chief Moshood Abiola (Moshood Abiola University of Lagos, MAULAG) the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.
The move faced fierce opposition from students, alumni, and other stakeholders. Protests, including a blockade of the Third Mainland Bridge, forced the government to abandon the plan.
Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
An attempt by the Jonathan administration to rename FUTA as Shehu Shagari University of Technology also failed.
The proposal met resistance, as Shagari, from Sokoto State, had no direct ties to Akure or the institution.
The Road Ahead for the University of Abuja
The renaming of the University of Abuja after General Yakubu Gowon is seen by many as a fitting honour for the former Head of State, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday.
However, whether this proposal will gain the needed legislative and public support remains to be seen. If history is any guide, success will depend on clear public consensus and Gowon’s perceived relevance to the institution and its community.
