Students at the University of Abuja have vehemently rejected the federal government’s decision to rename the institution after former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon. On Thursday, they staged a protest at the university’s main gate, demanding that the government reverse the decision immediately.

The protesters carried placards with inscriptions written boldly on them

“The voice of men is the voice of God”

“We stand for UniAbuja. We are the center of unity”

“Solve hunger problems, not renaming UniAbuja”

“It was rejected in Lagos; we are rejecting it in Abuja”.

Speaking on behalf of the Students Union Government (SUG), Comrade Nkem Silas urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the decision. He emphasized the potential psychological effects of the renaming on students and vowed to formally oppose the change.

“The federal government must reverse this decision. We, the students, reject it outright,” he declared.

Also Prof. Jeremiah Vambe, a lecturer and alumnus of the university, joined the protest and expressed his disapproval. While acknowledging Yakubu Gowon’s contributions to Nigeria, he criticized the lack of consultation and highlighted the adverse effects of the renaming on the institution.

“This sudden change will bring economic, legal, and psychological challenges for the university community. It is not welcomed by the students or staff,” he stated.

Calls for Policy Reforms in Higher Education
The protest highlights a broader dissatisfaction with government policies affecting educational institutions.

Stakeholders have called for more transparent and inclusive decision-making processes to avoid such conflicts in the future.