The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Maiduguri chapter, has formally announced its intention to sue the Federal Government over the renaming of the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University. They described the renaming as a politically motivated decree that disregards the university’s history, autonomy, and legal statutes governing federal institutions.
ASUU chair Dr. Abubakar Mshelia emphasized that the institution’s legal identity as “University of Maiduguri” is enshrined in an Act of the National Assembly, and renaming must follow legislative amendment, including consultations with the university’s governing council, senate, union, and other stakeholders.
The renaming was announced by President Tinubu on July 17, 2025, during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session held in honor of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The move has met widespread resistance from alumni, students, staff, and civic groups who argue it undermines a 50-year legacy and brand built amid adversity, especially during periods when UNIMAID remained operational during Boko Haram insurgencies.
According to ICIR data, former President Buhari’s administration saw 642 days of university closures due to ASUU strikes—more than any other president since 1999—fueling criticism about honoring him with the renaming of a major tertiary institution.
ASUU’s UNIMAID chapter will officially declare its position after an upcoming congress meeting, where extended executives and veteran members will present recommendations.
If the government fails to reverse the renaming or engages with stakeholders appropriately, ASUU has signaled it may file a lawsuit to challenge the legal validity of the decree in court.
