UPDATED: UNIABUJA now Yakubu Gowon University, FG

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially renamed the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University.

As gathered by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the information was shared with the journalists on Monday, by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, after a Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the report, the renaming was in recognition of General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State, on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

Idris announced that the proposal would be submitted to the National Assembly for formal approval.

Idris said, “The Federal Executive Council has chosen to honor General Yakubu Gowon by renaming the University of Abuja.

“Effective immediately, the University of Abuja will be known as Yakubu Gowon University.

“Following a decision by the FEC, a proposal to change the name of the University of Abuja will be submitted to the National Assembly for legislative consideration.”

In addition, Idris announced that the FEC will embark on a recess commencing December 18, 2024, and concluding January 6, 2025.

About UNIABUJA

The University of Abuja, commonly referred to as UNIABUJA, is a public institution located in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.

It was established in January 1988 under Decree No. 110 of 1992.

The university operates as a dual-mode institution, offering both conventional and distance learning programs.

The academic journey began in 1990 when the first students were formally admitted.

History

Initially, the university operated from a temporary location known as the “mini-campus” in Gwagwalada.

This site consisted of three buildings originally designed for primary education.

The mini-campus served as the foundation for academic activities starting in 1990.

Subsequently, the university received a substantial land allocation of over 11,800 hectares (29,000 acres) along the Airport Road in Abuja for the development of its permanent campus.

The transition to this permanent site has been ongoing, with significant improvements made over the years.

The campus now features three female hostels and two male hostels, accommodating thousands of students.

Additionally, the university’s distance learning offices are situated in Area 3 Garki within Abuja, where contact sessions for distance learning programs also take place.

Library

The University Library was founded in 1988 to enhance teaching, learning, and research activities at the University of Abuja.

It provides a variety of information resources, both online and offline, to support the university’s educational objectives.

The main library is strategically located on the main campus along Airport Road, Abuja, making it accessible to students and faculty.

Academics

The University of Abuja offers a diverse range of academic programs, including diplomas, undergraduate degrees, and postgraduate degrees.

It also features a Centre for Distance Learning, which caters to individuals unable to pursue traditional university education.

This center provides opportunities for those seeking to gain new knowledge and specialized skills.

The university comprises several faculties and colleges, each offering unique programs. These include:

Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Management Science, Faculty of Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Postgraduate Studies, School of Remedial Studies, College of Health Sciences College of Medicine, and Institute of Legislative Education.

In addition to its existing programs, the University of Abuja introduced  Geology and Mining program in the 2023/2024 academic session.

Conclusion

The University of Abuja stands as a significant educational institution in Nigeria, dedicated to providing quality education through its diverse programs and facilities.

Its ongoing development and commitment to distance learning make it accessible to a broader range of students.

As the university continues to grow, it remains focused on enhancing its academic offerings and supporting the educational aspirations of its students.

“The future looks promising for UofA as it strives to fulfill its mission of advancing knowledge.”

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