"University of Abuja officially renamed to Yakubu Gowon University. Post-UTME registration continues — deadline August 26. Minimum UTME score 180. Already registered? Your application remains valid."
University of Abuja Officially Renamed to Yakubu Gowon University
Published: August 20, 2026 | Source: CampusAI News
📌 Overview
The University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) has been officially renamed to Yakubu Gowon University. The announcement was confirmed via the university's verified X (formerly Twitter) account.
The name change honours General Yakubu Gowon (retd), Nigeria's former Head of State, in recognition of his contributions to national unity and development. The university's Post-UTME registration continues, with the deadline still set for August 26, 2026.
📊 Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|--------|-------------|
| Former Name | University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) |
| New Name | Yakubu Gowon University |
| Effective Date | August 20, 2026 |
| Honouree | General Yakubu Gowon (retd) — Former Head of State |
| Post-UTME Registration | Ongoing |
| Registration Deadline | August 26, 2026 |
| Minimum UTME Score | 180 |
🎯 Who Is Affected
The name change affects:
- ✅ All prospective candidates applying to UNIABUJA (now Yakubu Gowon University)
- ✅ Current students of the university
- ✅ Alumni and staff
- ✅ All official communications and documents
📝 What This Means for Candidates
Post-UTME Registration Continues
| Aspect | Status |
|--------|--------|
| Registration Portal | Still active |
| Deadline | August 26, 2026 (unchanged) |
| Eligibility | Still applies (180+ UTME, first choice) |
| Application Process | Same process, only name changed |
> 📌 Important: Candidates who have already registered do not need to re-register. All applications remain valid.
Key Reminders for Applicants
| Priority | Action |
|----------|--------|
| 🔴 | Complete registration before August 26 |
| 🟢 | Ensure O'Level results are uploaded on JAMB CAPS |
| 🟢 | Monitor JAMB CAPS for admission offers |
| 🟢 | Check the university portal for updates |
Will the Name Change Affect Admission?
No. The name change does not affect:
- ❌ Admission requirements
- ❌ Cut-off marks
- ❌ Application deadlines
- ❌ Already submitted applications
💡 Why the Name Change?
General Yakubu Gowon served as Nigeria's Head of State from 1966 to 1975 and is widely credited for his role in:
- 🇳🇬 Keeping Nigeria united during the civil war
- 🇳🇬 Promoting national reconciliation and reconstruction
- 🇳🇬 Advancing educational development in Nigeria
The renaming is a recognition of his contributions to the nation's unity and development.
📌 Important Notes
For Registered Candidates
- ✅ Your application remains valid
- ✅ No need to re-register
- ✅ The portal URL remains the same
- ✅ All processes continue as before
For New Applicants
- ✅ Visit the university's official portal
- ✅ Complete registration before August 26
- ✅ Ensure you meet the minimum UTME score of 180
- ✅ Upload O'Level results to JAMB CAPS
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Has UNIABUJA been renamed?
A: Yes. The University of Abuja has been officially renamed to Yakubu Gowon University.
Q: When did the name change take effect?
A: The name change was announced on August 20, 2026, via the university's verified X account.
Q: Will my application still be valid?
A: Yes. All applications already submitted remain valid. You do not need to re-register.
Q: Has the Post-UTME deadline changed?
A: No. The deadline remains August 26, 2026.
Q: Will the name change affect my admission?
A: No. Admission requirements, cut-off marks, and processes remain unchanged.
Q: Where do I check for updates?
A: Visit the university's official portal and JAMB CAPS for updates.
✅ Quick Action Checklist
- ✅ Complete registration before August 26
- ✅ Upload O'Level results to JAMB CAPS
- ✅ Monitor the university portal for updates
- ✅ Monitor JAMB CAPS for admission offers
- ✅ Accept admission promptly if offered
- ✅ Check official channels for further announcements
📚 Related Articles
🛠️ Useful Tools
| Tool | Description | Link |
|------|-------------|------|
| ✅ JAMB e-Facility Portal | Check admission status, results, and CAPS | Visit → |
| ✅ Aggregate Calculator | Calculate your admission aggregate score | Try Now → |
| ✅ Admission Chance Predictor | Get a personalised assessment | Check Now → |
| ✅ Post-UTME Tracker | View real-time updates on deadlines and exams | View Tracker → |
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> 📌 Editor's Note: This article is based on official announcements from the University of Abuja (now Yakubu Gowon University) via its verified X account and verified sources as of August 20, 2026. Always verify critical information on the official university portal.