The National Universities Commission has received the investigative report on the misuse and indiscriminate conferment of honorary doctorate degrees across Nigerian universities.
The report was formally presented to the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, by the special committee constituted to probe the growing concerns around the credibility and public perception of honorary awards in the country.
The committee’s work followed months of nationwide inquiries, engagements with stakeholders, and reviews of practices in various institutions.
According to the Commission, the investigation became necessary due to the rising trend of universities awarding honorary doctorate degrees without adhering to established guidelines.
There have also been increasing cases where honourees publicly prefix the title “Dr” to their names for personal influence, political positioning or social elevation, despite not earning an academic doctorate from a recognized university.
The NUC noted that such practices undermine the integrity of the Nigerian university system, devalue legitimate academic achievements, and create confusion in the public space.
The report is expected to guide the Commission in strengthening regulatory frameworks, enforcing compliance, and ensuring that honorary degrees retain their dignity and purpose.
Prof Ribadu commended the committee for its thorough work and assured that the findings and recommendations will be carefully studied.
He added that the Commission remains committed to upholding global standards and protecting the reputation of Nigeria’s higher education system.
