The recent announcement by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, that the Minna International Airport has been renamed Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked outcry from the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW).
Previously named Abubakar Imam Kagara International Airport, it has now been rebranded as the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport.
The SYNW, through its President, Wole Adedoyin, issued a statement strongly condemning the decision. Adedoyin emphasized the significant contributions of the late Abubakar Imam- whom the airport was originally named after-
“The naming was a recognition of what the Late Abubakar Imam had done for the nation.” He further stressed the sense of belonging and international recognition associated with Imam’s name, expressing disappointment in the renaming.
Adedoyin also raised concerns regarding the Governor’s motives, suggesting political reasons behind the decision rather than merit. The SYNW urged Governor Bago to honor the legacy of Abubakar Imam appropriately, emphasizing the need for recognition based on merit rather than political affiliations.
Furthermore, the press release addressed the apparent silence of some Niger State writers on the matter, implying potential influence from their connections to the Governor.
Abubakar Imam, a revered figure in Nigeria, was celebrated for his contributions across various domains. The SYNW highlighted his influence in literary, political, public, and educational spheres, both in northern Nigeria and the nation as a whole.
