The Alumni Association of the University of Abuja has strongly opposed the Nigerian government’s decision to rename the institution after former military leader Yakubu Gowon, warning that the move could damage the university’s legacy and cause unnecessary logistical and financial challenges.
The federal executive council recently approved the rebranding of the university to Yakubu Gowon University, a gesture intended to honour Gowon’s leadership during Nigeria’s civil war.
However, the alumni group has condemned the renaming as a “right step in the wrong direction.”
In a statement, the alumni raised concerns that the name change would undermine the university’s established brand, complicate administrative functions, and erase the hard-earned prestige that has defined the institution for decades.
The association further argued that while Gowon’s contributions to Nigeria’s unity are significant, renaming an established institution was not the best way to honour him.
The alumni suggested alternative ways to pay tribute to the former head of state, such as renaming Eagle Square or establishing a new institution or research centre in his honour.
These proposals, they argue, would preserve the university’s identity and legacy while acknowledging Gowon’s historical impact.
The student body, echoing the alumni’s sentiments, has also protested the decision, with peaceful demonstrations and an online petition amassing thousands of signatures in opposition to the name change.
In a bid to halt the rebranding, the alumni association has submitted letters to key government officials, including President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly leadership, the Minister of Education, and the National Universities Commission (NUC).
They have urged the government to prioritize strengthening the university’s academic and infrastructural capacity over altering its name, warning that the change could diminish the pride and identity of its alumni, students, and staff.
The association also criticized the lack of consultation with stakeholders before the decision, calling the renaming a “top-down imposition” that disregards the views of those most impacted by the change.
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