Students of the University of Abuja have rejected the Federal Government’s decision to rename the institution after former military leader Yakubu Gowon.

The Federal Executive Council approved the change during its final 2024 meeting, according to Minister Mohammed Idris. However, students gathered at the university’s main gate carrying placards reading, “We stand for UniAbuja” and “Solve hunger problems, not renaming UniAbuja.”

Comrade Nkem Silas of the Students Union Government (SUG) urged President Tinubu to reverse the decision, citing psychological concerns and plans to formally oppose the move.

Alumnus Prof. Jeremiah Vambe criticized the economic and legal complexities of the renaming, including the need to amend foundational laws. Similarly, Comrade Adamu Abdulbasit, President of AISA, argued it would undermine the university’s identity and suggested alternative projects like reviving the abandoned University of Science & Technology in Abaji.