In an open letter, stakeholders acknowledged Buhari's legacy but argued that changing the institution's name would undermine its established identity built over 40 years. They described UNIMAID as "a symbol of resilience, academic excellence, and regional pride" that remained open during the Boko Haram insurgency.
The petitioners, led by Opeyemi Olatinwo, emphasized that UNIMAID is more than a name; it's a brand and a beacon of hope in the Northeast. They argued that renaming the university would result in significant loss of its emotional and historical value.
With thousands of signatories, including current students and distinguished alumni, the petition proposed alternative ways to honor Buhari, such as renaming the Federal University of Transportation in Daura or the Nigerian Army University in Biu.
The appeal has gained momentum online, with over 1,500 new supporters signing as of Friday. Petitioners emphasized the importance of inclusive consultation for decisions of national and cultural significance.
Supporters of the university's current name expressed optimism that President Tinubu would demonstrate fairness and sensitivity by revisiting the decision.