By Izunna Okafor, Awka
What could be best described as mixed reactions have trailed the naming of a newly-completed administrative complex after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu within the permanent site of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra State.
The edifice, officially designated as the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administrative Complex, is touted as one of the most sophisticated administrative buildings among public health institutions in Nigeria. The imposing structure stands as a multi-million-naira facility, completed and yet to be officially commissioned, as part of efforts to upgrade infrastructure at NAUTH and boost its status as a tertiary medical and training institution.
Described by many as “a state-of-the-art architectural masterpiece,” the complex is designed to host the hospital’s core administrative operations and provide a modern working environment for staff and management.
However, while the construction of the building has been widely applauded as a commendable step in developing healthcare infrastructure in the South-East, the decision to name it after President Tinubu has stirred a flurry of reactions, especially among social media users.
A good number of Nigerians, particularly from the South-East, have questioned the motive and timing behind the gesture, with many interpreting it as a political move aimed at currying favour or rebranding perceptions of the President in a region where his political support base has remained comparatively thin.
Reacting to the pictures of the magnificent building with President Tinubu’s name on it, a netizen Kelvin Alphonsus queried: “What exactly did Tinubu do for NAUTH to deserve this? Why not name it after Prof. Udeze or any of the institution’s founding figures?”
Another user, Franklin Bernard, described the development as “a desperate attempt at appeasement,” adding: “Our hospitals are dying, our doctors are fleeing, yet the priority is to name buildings after politicians?”
On the flip side, some have defended the decision, insisting that as the current President, Tinubu’s leadership deserves to be acknowledged, particularly if the project was executed under his administration. A commentator, Amechi Ojukwu, stated, “People will always talk. If the building had been named after an unknown figure, the outrage would still be there. Let’s learn to appreciate leadership too.”
Similarly, others see it as a move towards unity and national integration, with Chuka Obidigbo, asserting: “We can’t continue isolating ourselves. If we must move forward as a nation, we must learn to give honour irrespective of where the person comes from.”
Others, however, have questioned the hospital’s priorities. “This is NAUTH, not Aso Rock,” wrote User Amaobi, who expressed disappointment that the hospital’s top needs—such as improved patient care, medical supplies, and research funding—are being overshadowed by cosmetic symbolism.
There are also concerns about the precedent this sets for public institutions. Some commentators argue that naming rights should follow institutional traditions and honour those with significant impact in the field of medicine or health administration. “When did politics become a bigger yardstick than merit?” asked Lilian Nwachukwu.
Despite the controversy, the building itself is undeniably a milestone in NAUTH’s infrastructural growth. With modern offices, conference facilities, and technologically-equipped spaces, it promises to enhance administrative efficiency and promote a conducive work culture for hospital staff.
The event comes at a time when Tinubu’s administration is grappling with criticism over fuel subsidy removal, rising inflation, and the economic hardship plaguing millions of Nigerians. To some, such a gesture appears tone-deaf in light of the daily struggles faced by average citizens, especially in the healthcare sector.
See the attached pictures for some reactions from netizens:
