Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Othello, cautions us that certain things are better left unaltered. The phrase “Let it alone” serves as a poignant reminder to preserve the integrity of what is already exemplary. The recent proposal by the Federal Executive Council to rechristen the University of Abuja as Yakubu Gowon University is a decision that should evoke profound concern among all patriotic Nigerians, particularly those who cherish national unity, identity, and educational heritage.
The idea of renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University since the announcement has sparked intense debate and protests from students, indigenous people of Abuja and other stakeholders. This move is part of a larger political culture of changing the names of tertiary institutions to immortalize politicians, which is highly unnecessary, especially for schools that have lived for decades. Universities are brands that have been built over decades, and changing their names can confuse foreign employers and academic institutions. For instance, if a university’s name were to be changed, it would be a challenge for graduates and raise questions about the validity of certificates issued to graduates.
Moreover, renaming a university can be a complex issue. It’s essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that any changes align with the institution’s values and mission. This is particularly important for institutions like the University of Abuja, which has established a strong reputation over the years and is known for unity and scholarship. It’s puzzling why anyone would risk damaging the reputation of a university for political gain. There are alternative ways to honour notable individuals, such as naming national symbols, or infrastructure after them. This approach would allow us to recognise the contributions of notable individuals without compromising the identity and heritage of our universities.
This rejection is not driven by political resentment and as a matter of fact, this writer is a staunch member of APC but by a desire to maintain the integrity and recognition of Nigerian universities worldwide. In Social Exchange Theory, we are taught that honouring individuals for their achievements in office is not a bad omen. However, considering Gowon’s role in establishing five universities in his time as Head of State between 1966-1975, including the University of Jos, wouldn’t it be more fitting to rename the University of Jos after him instead?
This approach would not only honour Gowon’s legacy but also acknowledge his contributions to the establishment of the University of Jos. Renaming the University of Abuja, on the other hand, might be seen as erasing its unique identity and the values it represents. Isn’t it worth considering alternative ways to honour Gowon’s legacy, such as naming a new institution, a major landmark after him or the unity schools? This argument isn’t about diminishing General Yakubu Gowon’s remarkable legacy. As a revered elder statesman and gentleman, he played a pivotal role in preserving Nigeria’s unity during the Civil War, and his contributions undoubtedly deserve recognition and immortalisation.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the best President we never had was deservedly honoured with the rechristening of the former University of Ife after him in 1987. This was in acknowledgement of his visionary endeavour in conceptualising and developing that iconic institution, which once held the record of arguably the most beautiful university campus in Africa. The erstwhile University of Ife was one of Awolowo’s several heroics in the consummation of the growth of the old Western region.
However, honouring Gowon’s legacy shouldn’t come at the expense of dismantling an institution that embodies the very unity he fought tirelessly to preserve.
The National Assembly, stakeholders of higher education and every Nigerian who believes in the power of unity and heritage, I implore you to reject this proposal as students and stakeholders of the University of Lagos resisted and rebelled against the attempt by the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan to re-designate the school after Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola in 2012. They voted loud and clear for the retention of the preexisting name and brand. The University of Abuja is not just another institution; it is a living embodiment of our national aspiration. Its name carries the weight of hope, and possibility, a Nigeria that can transcend its differences.
The name ‘University of Abuja’ is more than a geographical descriptor. It is a brand, an identity, a promise. It stands shoulder to shoulder with legendary institutions like the University of Nigeria and the University of Lagos — each name a testament to something greater than a single individual. As always said by the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, UniAbuja is a number one University in Nigeria by accident of location.
This institution is more than just a place of learning; it is a symbol of national unity, federal character, and collective identity. To rename it is to undermine these principles and send the wrong message to future generations. Let us preserve the University of Abuja for what it represents: a beacon of hope, unity, and national identity. Let us honour our past leaders in ways that do not compromise the core values and identities that bind us together as a nation. The University of Abuja must remain the University of Abuja. By preserving this name, we safeguard the sanctity of our national unity and ensure that future generations inherit an institution where the diverse spirit of Nigeria is celebrated and truly represented.
The proposed name change is not just an administrative decision; it is a potential erosion of a carefully constructed symbol of national unity. The University of Abuja represents what Nigeria can be: diverse, integrated, and respectful of all its constituent parts. Let us protect this and let the University of Abuja remain the University of Abuja — a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of national integration, and a testament to what we can achieve when we see beyond our differences. Our unity is sacred. Our institutions are its guardians. The University of Abuja must remain exactly what it is: A University for all Nigerians. Universities displace indigenous people when you rename universities at a whim. You erase the history of people who identify with that place and what it stands for. I would suggest a national call for a stop to this tradition, not just UniAbuja. Instead, the government can build new infrastructure in those universities and name them after politicians like “Yakubu Gowon Digital Development Mega Library” or Hostels.
To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you’re a father of the nation and a respected democrat. All the students of the University of Abuja are standing for your mandate, not for the gain of political goodies but in firm belief of your capacity. We hope you will have a rethink on this issue at hand. You have done so well for the nation’s educational sector, with the largest percentage given to education in the 2025 budget, which no one has done before you. In this light, we implore you not to give UniAbuja a new name, let it alone.
•Sulayman Nafiu, a student of Law at the University of Abuja, writes via [email protected]