The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially approved the renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University. This decision was announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, following the council’s final meeting for 2024 at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
During the briefing, Idris stated, “The third item is that there is also a decision taken by the Federal Executive Council to rename the University of Abuja to honor elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon.” He emphasized that the university would henceforth be known as Yakubu Gowon University.
The minister further clarified that while the FEC has made this decision, the name change will require legislative approval. The council plans to submit the necessary documentation to the National Assembly to initiate the formal process for the name change.
In addition to the renaming announcement, Idris noted that the Federal Executive Council will take a recess from December 18, 2024, to January 6, 2025, during which no council meetings will take place.
This renaming reflects the Nigerian government’s recognition of General Yakubu Gowon’s contributions to the nation. Gowon served as Nigeria’s military ruler from 1966 to 1975 and is widely respected for his role during a critical period in the country’s history, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War.
As the university transitions to its new name, there is anticipation regarding how this change will impact the institution’s identity and its vision moving forward. The decision also highlights the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian government to honor notable figures in the country’s history through institutional namesakes.
This move aligns with similar initiatives aimed at recognizing significant contributions to Nigeria’s development and governance. The renaming of the University of Abuja is expected to spark discussions around the legacy of General Gowon and the broader implications for the nation’s educational institutions.
