The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University, in honor of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd), who recently celebrated his 90th birthday.
This decision was disclosed by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, during a media briefing following the council’s 14th meeting under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The session, which marked the final FEC meeting for the year 2024, also included discussions on other critical national matters.
Idris explained that the proposal to rename the university will be forwarded to the National Assembly for formal ratification, ensuring its legal recognition and implementation.
Why Gowon?
General Yakubu Gowon, who served as Nigeria’s youngest Head of State from 1966 to 1975, is widely celebrated for his leadership during a defining moment in the country’s history. At the age of 31, Gowon took office during a period of political unrest and led the nation through the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970).
During the war, he championed the slogan “to keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done,” which underscored his commitment to maintaining the country’s unity. Following the war, Gowon implemented a “no victor, no vanquished” policy to foster reconciliation and launched a reconstruction programme aimed at national healing and rebuilding.
Under Gowon’s administration, Nigeria experienced significant economic growth, bolstered by an oil boom. This period of prosperity was leveraged to expand infrastructure, establish educational institutions, and elevate the country’s global standing.
Although Gowon’s leadership ended with a bloodless coup in 1975, he remains a prominent advocate for peace and unity, dedicating much of his later years to fostering harmony and progress within Nigeria.
About the University of Abuja
Established in 1988, the University of Abuja has grown into a leading institution, offering a dual-mode learning system that combines conventional and distance learning programmes. Its vision to provide accessible education has made it a central hub for students across the country.
The renaming of the university to Yakubu Gowon University is seen as a tribute to the former leader’s contributions to education, national unity, and development.
Next Steps
The Minister of Information noted that the National Assembly will be tasked with reviewing and approving the proposal, which is expected to formalize the renaming of the university.
The move is part of the government’s effort to honor individuals who have significantly shaped Nigeria’s history and upheld its values of unity and progress.
