Why Tinubu renamed UNIMAID after Buhari — Education Minister

The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, on Friday said the University of Maiduguri was renamed after the late former president Muhammadu Buhari as a result of his unwavering commitment to education.

Speaking in a statement on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education and the entire Nigerian education sector, Alausa said the ministry is deeply honoured that the sector has been chosen as the channel through which the late President’s legacy would be permanently enshrined.

The statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, noted that the renaming of UNIMAID as Muhammadu Buhari University of Maiduguri was announced during a special session of the expanded Federal Executive Council (FEC) convened on Thursday by President Tinubu to honour the legacy of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

The President opened the session with a moving tribute chronicling the life and service of the late statesman, particularly highlighting his commitment to national security, institutional reform, economic recovery, and anti-corruption efforts.

Distinguished national leaders, including the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Governors, Ministers, and Heads of Service of the Federation paid heartfelt tributes.

In a solemn response, Yusuf Buhari, son of the late President, spoke on behalf of the Buhari family.

According to the statement, the President’s FEC memo, seeking to honour and recognise the enduring impact of President Buhari’s leadership, culminated in the Council’s approval to rename the institution in his memory.

Alausa noted, “President Buhari’s administration (2015–2023) was marked by notable reforms in national security, anti-corruption, infrastructure, agriculture, and human capital development — including the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, TSA, ERGP, and social investment schemes — which significantly contributed to national progress.

“The Ministry of Education is deeply honoured that the sector has been chosen as the channel through which the late President’s legacy will be permanently enshrined,” the statement added.

“President Tinubu’s decision reflects not only deep empathy and respect but also a firm belief in education as the bedrock of national development. His commitment to human capital development is unwavering and consistent with the path of national renewal that President Buhari championed.”

The Minister added that this symbolic gesture underscores the administration’s recognition of education as a cornerstone for sustainable development and national identity.

“The Ministry reiterates its commitment to upholding the values of service, integrity, and excellence that both late President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exemplify,” the statement added.

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