Students, Alumni Reject University of Abuja Renaming, Urge FG to Reverse Decision

Concerned students and alumni of the University of Abuja have strongly rejected the Federal Government’s proposal to rename the institution Yakubu Gowon University, calling for an immediate reversal of the decision.

In a statement released by Ogunwoye Samson Gbemiga, Coordinator of the University of Abuja Concerned Alumni Comrades, the group described the move as an affront to the institution’s legacy and identity, which have been nurtured over decades.

“We stand united in our outright rejection of the Federal Government’s recent proposal to rename our esteemed institution to Yakubu Gowon University. This attempt not only undermines the legacy and identity that the University of Abuja has cultivated over the years but also disregards the voices and sentiments of its current students and alumni,” the statement read.

The University of Abuja, established as a hub of knowledge and academic excellence, has played a significant role in fostering education and cultural diversity. The group insists that such a significant decision should involve thorough consultation with critical stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni, and the community.

Highlighting the precedence set by resistance to a similar name change at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the group vowed to take collective action to resist the renaming. “We draw inspiration from the successful resistance mounted by students at UNILAG when faced with a similar challenge. Their determination showcased the power of unity in preserving institutional integrity against governmental overreach,” the statement added.

The concerned stakeholders have pledged to mobilize students, alumni, and indigenous people of Abuja to ensure their voices are heard. Planned actions include peaceful protests, awareness campaigns, and strategic discussions to amplify their concerns.

“Our university stands for more than just a name; it represents our shared experiences, aspirations, and commitment to education. We urge the Federal Government to immediately reconsider this decision in favor of dialogue that respects our institution’s heritage,” Gbemiga stated.

The statement concluded with a resolute call to action: “We reaffirm our commitment to protecting the identity of the University of Abuja. We will not stand idly by while decisions are made without our input or consideration for what they mean for future generations.”

Read full statement below: 

PRESS STATEMENT: WE TOTALLY REJECT RENAMING UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA TO YAKUBU GOWON UNIVERSITY AND WE URGE FG TO IMMEDIATELY REVERSE THE DECISION 

December 16, 2024

As concerned students and alumni of the University of Abuja, we stand united in our outright rejection of the Federal Government’s recent proposal to rename our esteemed institution to Yakubu Gowon University. This attempt not only undermines the legacy and identity that the University of Abuja has cultivated over the years but also disregards the voices and sentiments of its current students and alumni.

The University of Abuja has been a beacon of knowledge, fostering academic excellence and promoting cultural diversity since its establishment. The proposed name change is seen as an affront to our collective identity and history. We believe that such a significant alteration should involve thorough consultation with all stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community.

In light of this situation, we vow to mobilize indigenous people from Abuja, alongside students and alumni, to resist this name change vigorously. We draw inspiration from the successful resistance mounted by students at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) when faced with a similar challenge. Their determination showcased the power of unity in preserving institutional integrity against governmental overreach.

We call upon all stakeholders—students, alumni, faculty members, and community leaders—to join us in this cause. Together, we will ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear. We will organize peaceful protests, awareness campaigns, and discussions to highlight our concerns regarding this proposed name change.

Our university stands for more than just a name; it represents our shared experiences, aspirations, and commitment to education. We urge the Federal Government to immediately reconsider this decision in favor of dialogue that respects our institution’s heritage. 

We reaffirm our commitment to protecting the identity of the University of Abuja. We will not stand idly by while decisions are made without our input or consideration for what they mean for future generations.

Ogunwoye Samson Gbemiga, 

Coordinator,  University of Abuja Concerned Alumni Comrades.

ogunwoyesamson@gmail.com