FG Honours Late Buhari: Five Public Structures Renamed in Borno

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 By Victor Olubiye 


The Federal Government has approved the renaming of five major public structures in Borno State after Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, in honour of his service and historical ties to the state.

The decision was reached during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session held on Wednesday, July 17, just days after Buhari’s passing on July 13. The move is part of efforts to immortalize the late president, who served as military governor of the former North-Eastern State and played a key role in the region’s development.

Among the renamed institutions is the University of Maiduguri, which will now be known as Muhammadu Buhari University. The university was established in 1975, during Buhari’s tenure as military administrator of the North-East, before Borno State was carved out in 1976.

Other public assets in Maiduguri renamed after the former president include:

Maiduguri International Airport, now Muhammadu Buhari International Airport

Muhammadu Buhari Academy, a primary school supporting orphans affected by insurgency

An industrial layout in Njimtilo, previously commissioned by Buhari during his presidency

Legacy Gardens Housing Estate, a 246-unit residential estate launched during his visit in 2019.

Buhari’s connection to Borno runs deeper than politics. While born in Katsina, his mother was Kanuri, from Kukawa in present-day Borno State. His past administrative role and repeated visits during his presidency, especially for commissioning infrastructure and humanitarian projects, strengthened his legacy in the region.

The naming gesture has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a fitting tribute to a leader who prioritized security and infrastructure in the North-East. Others have raised concerns over the trend of naming public assets after former leaders, urging a more inclusive approach to national recognition.

Still, for many in Borno, the renamed institutions stand as a reminder of Buhari’s historical and administrative influence in the region.


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