National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
President Bola Tinubu has approved the renaming of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) to honour former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, recognizing his contributions to Nigeria’s unity and development.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, chaired by the President on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. This move reflects the administration’s commitment to acknowledging the efforts of past leaders who played significant roles in shaping the nation’s history.
According to the Minister, “It is now to be called The Yakubu Gowon University in honour of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, subject to the approval of the National Assembly.” The name change is seen as a tribute to Gowon’s leadership during Nigeria’s challenging post-civil war era and his dedication to fostering national reconciliation and unity.
General Yakubu Gowon, who served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1966 to 1975, is widely respected for his role in maintaining the country’s territorial integrity during the civil war and initiating the policy of “no victor, no vanquished” to promote healing and national cohesion.
The renaming of the university, which serves as a hub for higher education and research in the nation’s capital, is expected to inspire students and staff to embody the values of unity, leadership, and service that Gowon represents.
The decision, however, remains subject to approval by the National Assembly before it can take full effect.
