Tinubu honours late Islamic scholar with renaming of Federal University in Bauchi
President Bola Tinubu has approved the renaming of the Federal University of Sciences, Azare, in Bauchi State after the late Islamic cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, in a move aimed at preserving the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential religious leaders.
The decision was announced on Saturday during the President’s condolence visit to Bauchi State following the death of the revered scholar, who passed away in late November.
While paying tribute, President Tinubu described Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as a towering figure whose life was devoted to faith, learning, moral guidance and the promotion of peaceful coexistence across communities.
During the visit, the President offered prayers for the repose of the cleric’s soul and commiserated with members of his family, students, and followers, many of whom travelled from within and outside the country to pay their respects.
Tinubu noted that renaming the institution in the Sheikh’s honour was a way of immortalising his contributions to Islamic scholarship and national unity.
The President arrived at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport in Bauchi to a warm reception led by Governor Bala Mohammed.
He was accompanied by several top government officials, including Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, and members of the Federal Executive Council.
Among those present were the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and the Minister of Health, Ali Pate, as well as other political and community leaders.
Governor Bala Mohammed expressed appreciation to the President for honouring the late cleric and described the renaming of the university as a proud moment for Bauchi State.
He said the gesture reflected national recognition of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s enduring influence, not only as a religious leader but also as a symbol of peace, moderation and intellectual depth.
The governor recalled the cleric’s long years of service to humanity, noting that his teachings consistently emphasised tolerance, dialogue and harmony among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
He described the scholar’s death as a profound loss to Nigeria and the wider Muslim world.
Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi was the spiritual leader of the Tijjaniyya Sufi order and held a respected ijāzah that was widely recognised across West Africa.
Born into a family with strong roots in Bauchi and Gombe States, he became a central figure in Islamic learning, mentoring generations of scholars and students.
His influence extended beyond religious circles, as he was often consulted on issues of peace, social justice and moral leadership.
With the university now bearing his name, government officials say the institution is expected to serve as a lasting reminder of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s values and contributions.
The renaming is also seen as a symbolic link between education and the ideals of knowledge, discipline and service that the late cleric championed throughout his life.
