The Federal Ministry of Education has said that the decision to rename the University of Maiduguri in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari was based on his administration’s strong commitment to education, institutional reform, and national development.

In a statement released on Friday by the Ministry’s Director of Press, Folasade Boriowo, the renaming was announced during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session convened by President Bola Tinubu to pay tribute to the late president.

President Tinubu approved the renaming of the university to Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri, describing the late leader as a statesman who prioritised national security, economic recovery, anti-corruption efforts, and education.

Speaking during the session, President Tinubu led a series of tributes delivered by top government officials, including the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; state governors, ministers, and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Yusuf Buhari, the late president’s son, responded on behalf of the family.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, said the renaming was a “symbolic gesture” that reflects Buhari’s lasting influence on Nigeria’s educational and economic policies. He cited initiatives such as the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, and various social investment schemes as evidence of Buhari’s efforts in human capital development.

“The Ministry of Education is deeply honoured that the education sector has been chosen as the avenue through which President Buhari’s legacy will be enshrined,” the statement read.

The ministry added that the renaming reflects President Tinubu’s belief in education as central to national renewal and development. It pledged to uphold the values of service, integrity, and excellence that both leaders represented.