From Tunde Bishop, Sokoto
A grouo, Sokoto Heritage Reloaded Initiative (SOHRI) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rename the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) after the second republican President, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Shagari.
In an open letter to the President, the leader of the group, Prof. Uthman Abdulqadir, praised President Tinubu’s commitment to loyalty and principle.
The group noted that late President Shagari, Nigeria’s first executive President, was a symbol of humility, integrity, and selfless service to the nation, and that his legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.
“President Shagari was not just a leader; he was a symbol of humility, integrity, and statesmanship.”
“His vision for Nigeria, especially in the area of education, laid the groundwork for what we have today in distance and open learning. It was during his tenure that the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) was first conceived — a revolutionary idea to democratize access to higher education.
“Mr. President, what better way to immortalize Shehu Shagari than to rename NOUN as the Shehu Shagari Open University of Nigeria — a tribute not just to his legacy, but to his enduring vision for an educated and enlightened Nigeria.
“By doing this, Your Excellency, you would not only honor a great son of Nigeria but also write your name in gold as the leader who kept promises made in good faith — even across administrations. It would signal that Nigeria is a country that remembers, rewards legacy, and respects the contributions of its heroes past.
The group stated that fulfilling the promise to name a national monument after President Shagari would be a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to honoring Nigeria’s heroes and respecting the country’s rich history.
“We urge you, Mr. President, to take this noble step and immortalize President Shagari’s memory by naming a national monument in his honor,” the group said.
According to the group the appeal was made on behalf of countless Nigerians and lovers of the country’s national history.
“We urged President Tinubu’s administration to take steps to recognize and honor the contributions of Nigeria’s past leaders, including President Shagari.”
The group however expressed confidence that President Tinubu would consider their appeal and take the necessary steps to honor President Shagari’s memory.
