Naming projects after individuals is a common practice that acknowledges and honors their contributions. In Nigeria, this tradition extends to government infrastructures, such as schools, hospitals, and airports, which are often named after prominent figures, particularly those who have served the nation with distinction.
When projects are named after individuals, it is essential to engage key stakeholders and obtain their approval before making any announcements. Failing to consult critical stakeholders can lead to public resentment and controversy regarding the renaming efforts.
A check by WITHIN NIGERIA revealed that Governor Rauf Aregbesola announced the renaming of Osun State Polytechnic in Iree after S.M. Afolabi. This decision garnered mixed reactions from the public, particularly among students and alumni who did not support the change.
Additional checks revealed that in 2012, President Goodluck Jonathan renamed the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to Moshood Abiola University, Lagos, in honor of Chief Moshood Kasimawo Abiola, who was widely regarded as the winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. This decision faced widespread criticism and protests from students, alumni, union groups, and prominent politicians, including Bola Tinubu and Kayode Fayemi.
On May 29, 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The former governor of Lagos and opposition leader has had at least six public institutions named in his honor.
Here are the six public institutions named after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu:
1. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks, Abuja
The barracks located in the Asokoro district of Abuja were inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu on January 23, 2025.
Initiated and executed by Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya and the late Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the barracks include 16 quarters for major generals, 34 for brigadier generals, 60 flats for major colonels, and 60 flats for lieutenant colonels.
It also comprises 180 blocks of flats for senior non-commissioned officers, 264 flats for corporals and lower ranks, worship centers, sports facilities, and a power station. Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede stated that naming the barracks after President Tinubu was a way of “giving honor to whom honor is due.”
2. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic, Abuja
The federal government has approved the establishment of a federal polytechnic in Gwarinpa, Abuja, to be named after President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, confirmed this in a letter to Nyesom Wike, the FCT minister, on January 9.
Alausa stated that the establishment of this institution is part of the ministry’s plan to ensure that each state has a federal polytechnic, aligning with the government’s policy to promote technological and vocational training.
3. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex (BATTIC)
President Bola Tinubu inaugurated the Immigration Services Technology Innovation Complex to enhance national security and improve the efficiency of the country’s migration and border management processes.
Located at the headquarters of the Nigeria Immigration Services in Abuja, this ultra-modern complex will serve as the hub for the immigration service and all paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior, enabling secure and real-time sharing, storage, and processing of security intelligence.
4. Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building (National Assembly Library)
The management of the Nigerian National Assembly has named its library after President Bola Tinubu, which will now be referred to as the “Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building.”
This library, also called the Resource Centre, was commissioned by President Tinubu on the same day he addressed a joint session of the National Assembly.
On the first anniversary of Tinubu’s administration, the National Assembly renamed its legislative research center in his honor on May 29, 2024.
5. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, named the Southern Parkway—from the National Christian Centre to Ring Road I (Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway)—after President Bola Tinubu.
Wike announced this honor during the inauguration of the road for public use in Abuja as part of celebrations for Tinubu’s first year in office.
Although the renaming of this major route in Abuja was quietly implemented in March 2024, it attracted significant public attention.
6. Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, announced the renaming of the Abuja International Conference Centre to the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
This announcement came shortly after President Tinubu reopened the renovated facility and directed all ministries, departments, and agencies to pay for its use to ensure its upkeep and long-term sustainability.
