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FIVE NIGERIAN MONUMENTS THAT WERE RENAMED AFTER POLITICIANS
In Nigeria, it seems nothing is sacred—not even the names of our national monuments. From airports to universities and stadiums, renaming public places after political leaders has become a go-to move for governments trying to immortalize their own. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
But behind every new name is a story — sometimes controversial, sometimes sentimental. Here are five Nigerian monuments that got renamed after politicians, and the real tea behind it.
- Moshood Abiola National Stadium (Abuja)
Formerly: National Stadium, Abuja
Renamed By: President Muhammadu Buhari
Year: 2019
This iconic stadium was renamed in honour of M.K.O. Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election. Buhari pulled the PR move on Democracy Day, celebrating Abiola as “the martyr of Nigerian democracy.”
Why it matters:[/b] A long-overdue recognition for a man whose stolen mandate reshaped Nigerian politics.
- Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos)
Formerly: Lagos International Airport
Renamed By: General Olusegun Obasanjo
Year: 1976
Just weeks after General Murtala Muhammed was assassinated in 1976, the Lagos airport was renamed in his honour. Obasanjo, who succeeded him, made sure Murtala’s legacy would fly high—literally.
Why it matters: It’s Nigeria’s busiest airport and a daily reminder of one of the country’s most radical military reformers.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Awka)
Formerly: Anambra State University of Technology
Renamed By: Federal Government
Year: 1991
Named after Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, a.k.a. Zik of Africa, this university got a major upgrade when it went federal—and so did its name.
Why it matters: Zik was a pioneer of African nationalism, and the school proudly sits in the South-East as a symbol of Igbo pride.
- Muhammadu Buhari University (Maiduguri)
Formerly: University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
Renamed By: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Year: 2025
Tinubu recently renamed UNIMAID after his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, during a Federal Executive Council tribute session.
Why it matters: A deeply political gesture. While some applaud it, others are asking, “What legacy are we really honouring?”
- Obafemi Awolowo University (Ile-Ife)
Formerly: University of Ife
Renamed By: Federal Government
Year: 1987
Renaming the University of Ife after Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a founding father and Yoruba nationalist, was a move welcomed by many. Even students proudly chant “Great Ife!” with extra swag.
Why it matters: Awo remains a symbol of educational reform and visionary politics in the South-West.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy or Just Political Branding?
While some of these renamings honour true national heroes, others feel like vanity projects or power plays. Nigerians are now asking—what’s next? Third Mainland Bridge renamed after someone’s uncle?
One thing’s clear: names carry weight, and in Nigeria, they also carry politics.
