7 Public Places Named After Tinubu Since May 2023 — Critics Warn of Cult of Personality

In One Year, Seven National Assets Now Bear Tinubu’s Name — Is It Too Soon?

Byline: IDNN National Politics

Abuja — A rising wave of political debate has trailed the renaming of at least seven public assets in Nigeria after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since his assumption of office on May 29, 2023.

The trend, described by critics as an emerging “cult of personality,” has sparked nationwide scrutiny — especially as most of the renamed assets are infrastructure projects initiated under past administrations.

List of Places Renamed After Tinubu:

1. Bola Tinubu Highway – Renamed from Murtala Mohammed Way, Niger State

2. Bola Tinubu Army Forward Operating Base – Nasarawa State

3. Bola Tinubu Teaching Hospital – Formerly FMC Daura, Katsina

4. Bola Tinubu International Airport – Renamed Akure Airport, Ondo

5. Bola Tinubu Model School – Kogi State

6. Bola Tinubu Stadium – Jigawa State

7. Bola Tinubu Flyover – Ebonyi State

Critics: “This is Not Leadership — It’s Hero Worship”

Opposition voices and civic groups have warned that the naming spree appears less like honour and more like loyalist appeasement, particularly as several of the projects were:

• Built under Jonathan or Buhari

• Renamed without public consultations

• Unrelated to Tinubu’s direct legacy

“This trend reeks of political worship, not public service,” said activist Tolu Ogunlesi.
“Legacy should be earned through governance — not gifted by cronies.”

 Defenders Say “It’s Deserved”

Supporters of the President argue that Tinubu’s contributions to Nigerian democracy and national development justify such honours.

“He is the architect of modern political coalition-building. That’s worthy of memorials,” said APC chieftain Dr. Salisu Arinze.

Some also noted that past presidents like Obasanjo and Buhari had multiple assets named after them while still alive.

Public Honour or Political Overkill?

What Worries Critics:

• Premature naming projects may signal a deeper personality cult culture

• Undermines democratic ethos of service before celebration

What Tinubu Allies Want:

• To solidify Tinubu as “Father of Modern Nigeria”

• To stamp political influence ahead of 2027 succession battles

 Whether it’s legacy or lobbying, one thing is clear — Tinubu’s name is everywhere. And Nigerians are watching