…Demands Immediate Reversal
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) Branch, has vehemently opposed the Federal Government’s proposed renaming of the institution to “Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri,” describing the move as arbitrary, ill‑conceived, and a disregard for the university’s heritage and autonomy.
In a resolution issued after a Special Congress Meeting held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, members of ASUU-UNIMAID, alongside representatives of the Student Union Government and other stakeholders, unanimously rejected the renaming plan.
“We vehemently reject and strongly condemn the decision to rename the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri,” the Congress declared in the statement, which was jointly signed by the Branch Chairperson, Dr. Abubakar Mshelia Saidu, and the Assistant Secretary, Dr. Peter Budu Teru.
The union stressed the need to safeguard the university’s historical significance, cultural heritage, and regional identity, describing them as “inviolable and sacrosanct.”
“Any attempt to alter its name undermines its legacy and disregards the collective memory of its stakeholders,” the statement read.
ASUU-UNIMAID further condemned the move as a “flagrant disregard for university autonomy,” adding that such interference “disrupts cherished academic traditions and constitutes a direct affront to the collective heritage and identity of the University Community.”
The Congress demanded the immediate and unconditional reversal of the proposed renaming, calling it “ill‑conceived, arbitrary, and devoid of meaningful consultation with the university community, alumni, and other relevant stakeholders.”
“Such a unilateral decision reflects a troubling disregard for due process and stakeholder engagement in governance,” ASUU-UNIMAID noted.
The Congress mandated its Executive Committee (EXCO) to explore all available legal avenues to challenge the decision and ensure the university retains its original identity. It also commended the EXCO for proactive steps already taken to oppose the renaming.
Furthermore, ASUU called on its branches, zones, and national organs to engage the National Assembly, Civil Society Organizations, and students to resist any legislative endorsement of the name change.
“The Union demands that the autonomy and integrity of public universities must be upheld without political interference,” the statement emphasized.
Commitment to Academic Freedom
In its conclusion, the Congress reaffirmed its commitment to democratic governance and institutional autonomy, pledging to defend the university’s identity as a “beacon of knowledge, resilience, and national unity in the North-East and Nigeria at large.”
“ASUU-UNIMAID remains resolute in defending the sanctity of academic freedom against arbitrary political impositions. The Union also stands united in its resolve to safeguard the institution’s identity,” the resolution stated.
