In recognition of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), the Federal Government has renamed the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University. This decision was made known by Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, after the Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu on Monday, December 16, 2024.
According to Idris, “The University of Abuja will now be known as Yakubu Gowon University. Of course, the processing will have to go to the National Assembly, for all legislation in that direction” . The minister explained that the renaming is a tribute to Gowon’s pivotal role in fostering national unity and stability during his time as Head of State.
The proposal will be forwarded to the National Assembly for formal approval. Idris noted that the Federal Executive Council commended President Tinubu for his stewardship for the past 18 months and also reiterated the commitment of its members and support for his programmes and leadership.