In a historic move to immortalize the legacy of Nigeria’s late former President, Muhammadu Buhari, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially approved the renaming of the University of Maiduguri in Borno State. The institution will now be known as Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri.

The announcement was made today, July 17, 2025, following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting where the President emphasized the need to honor national figures whose leadership and contributions have shaped the course of the nation.
President Tinubu described the late President Buhari as a “patriot and statesman who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria,” highlighting his roles as a former Head of State, a democratically elected President, and a key figure in the fight against insurgency in the North-East region.

“The decision to rename the University of Maiduguri is in recognition of the pivotal role President Muhammadu Buhari played in restoring peace and rebuilding the North-East. His commitment to education, national security, and integrity remains a legacy that must be preserved for generations to come,” President Tinubu stated.
The newly renamed Muhammadu Buhari University is one of Nigeria’s foremost federal institutions, established in 1975. Located in the heart of a region once devastated by insurgency, the university has symbolized resilience and progress — values which the late former president embodied during his tenure.
Reactions have continued to pour in from across the country, with several political leaders, academics, and citizens applauding the move as a fitting tribute. Many see the renaming as a unifying gesture and a reminder of the importance of selfless leadership.
This development comes days after the Federal Government declared July 15 as a national holiday in memory of the former president, further cementing his place in Nigeria’s political and historical landscape.