By John Ogunsemore
The President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the renaming of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) to Yakubu Gowon University in honour of the nation’s past Head of State.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday.
“The University of Abuja will now be known as Yakubu Gowon University. Of course, the processing will have to go to the National Assembly, for all legislation in that direction.
“But FEC has decided to write to the National Assembly to change the name of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University, in honour of the former head of state and elder statesman,” Idris said.
Meanwhile, the minister also said the Federal Government would offer free train service to all Nigerians from December 20 up until January 5, 2025.
Idris said the free train service was consistent with the president’s desire to cushion the effect of high transportation costs for the most vulnerable Nigerians.
“Recall that this also happened in the last Christmas period and the Sallah period. And Mr President has also approved that this year, from Dec. 20 to Jan. 5, there will be free transport service nationwide,” he said.
Idris noted that the FEC commended President Tinubu for his stewardship for the past 18 months and also reiterated the commitment of its members and support for his programmes and leadership.
He stated that the FEC would proceed on recess from December 18 to January 6, 2025.