Tinubu Renames Kaduna Petroleum Institute After Shehu Yar’Adua

President Bola Tinubu has announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology, in honour of the late military officer’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic transition.

The announcement was made on Friday during his Democracy Day address, where he highlighted national recognition for key figures who played significant roles in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy and political stability.

Tinubu said the decision was part of a broader effort to honour the architects of Nigeria’s democratic journey, particularly those linked to the June 12 movement and the return to civilian rule.

“Among the architects of modern democratic Nigeria, we honour General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua for his vision of national partnership,” the President said.

He explained that the Federal Government had approved both the revitalisation of the existing institute and its renaming in recognition of Yar’Adua’s contributions to national unity, governance reforms, and democratic advocacy.

According to him, the move reflects the administration’s commitment to preserving the legacy of individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping Nigeria’s political evolution.

Tinubu also used the occasion to announce the approval of national honours for more than 30 individuals who participated in the June 12 democratic struggle. The list includes activists, politicians, journalists, civil society leaders, and military figures who, according to him, endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and other hardships in defence of democratic governance.

He noted that posthumous recognitions were also awarded to several late democracy figures, including Dr Arthur Nwankwo and Ben Charles-Obi, in acknowledgment of their sacrifices.

The President said the full list of awardees would be officially released in the coming days, adding that the honours are intended to celebrate those who contributed to Nigeria’s democratic development and inspired future generations.

Tinubu reiterated that June 12 remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s history, symbolising the struggle for freedom, justice, and representative governance.

He added that his administration remains committed to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the sacrifices of past heroes continue to shape the country’s political and governance reforms.