From Airports to Barracks: Eight National Monuments Named After Tinubu Since May 2023

Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, at least eight public infrastructure projects and institutions across Nigeria have been named or renamed in his after him. This trend, spanning airports, roads, educational facilities, and military barracks, has sparked widespread debate, with some praising the recognition of his leadership and others criticizing it as premature or politically motivated.

Below is a detailed account of these projects, including their previous names, renaming dates, and the stated reasons for the honour.

1. Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna

Previous named Abubakar Imam International Airport, the Niger State government, led by Governor Umar Bago, renamed the airport on March 10, 2024, to honour President Tinubu’s support for the state’s development initiatives. The decision followed the federal government’s 2023 directive to rename 15 airports after notable Nigerians, but the choice to replace Abubakar Imam’s name drew criticism for overlooking historical figures.

2. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, Abuja

On May 28, 2024, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike renamed Southern Parkway (S8/S9), which links the Christian Centre to Ring Road One, after Tinubu to celebrate his contributions to infrastructure development in the Federal Capital Territory. The renaming coincided with the road’s inauguration during Tinubu’s first anniversary in office, highlighting his “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

3. Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building, National Assembly

The National Assembly, on May 2024, renamed its nearly completed library to honuor Tinubu’s commitment to legislative development. Completed by the 10th Assembly after the 9th Assembly’s tenure ended in June 2023, the renaming was part of first-anniversary celebrations, emphasizing Tinubu’s support for governance institutions.

4. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex (BATTIC)

On December 10, 2024, the Nigeria Immigration Service renamed its technology hub, Nigeria Immigration Service Command and Control Centre, to align with Tinubu’s tech-forward agenda.

“Today, we gather to commission the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex—BATTIC—here at the NIS Headquarters,” Controller General of the NIS, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, said.

“This cutting-edge facility is a true testament to Nigeria’s forward-thinking approach to digital transformation and national security,” she added.

5. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic, Gwarinpa

On January 16, 2025, after the approval of a new polytechnic in Gwarinpa, Abuja, the institution was named after President Bola Tinubu as an honour to his educational reforms.

6. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks, Asokoro

Also, the newly constructed Army Barracks in Asokoro, Abuja, was, on January 16, 2025, named after Tinubu to recognize his support for security operations. The facility, equipped with residential quarters, worship centers, and sports facilities, aims to boost troop accommodation in the capital.

7. Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja

Again, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, on June 10, renamed the Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC) to Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja after a N39 billion renovation. According to him, Tinubu leadership was central in transforming the dilapidated 1991 structure into a world-class facility. Wike defended the move as a tribute to Tinubu’s vision, though critics, including Senator Shehu Sani, argued it disregarded historical context.

8. Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road, Leading to Dangote Refinery

Aliko Dangote, during the refinery’s commissioning, named the access road to his mega refinery after Tinubu to honour his contributions to the project’s success.