Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa.
The Federal Government has introduced a sweeping reform in Nigeria’s education sector, prohibiting recipients of honorary degrees from using the title “Dr” as part of efforts to curb the misuse of academic distinctions.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during a media briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He disclosed that the decision was approved by the Federal Executive Council at its meeting on April 30, 2026.
According to the minister, the directive is aimed at restoring credibility to Nigeria’s academic system by addressing what he described as the growing abuse and politicisation of honorary degrees. He noted that, over the years, the conferment of such awards has increasingly been driven by political patronage, financial inducements, and undue influence, rather than genuine recognition of outstanding contributions to society.
Alausa expressed concern that honorary degrees traditionally reserved for individuals with exceptional achievements have in some cases been awarded to serving public officials and influential figures, contrary to established academic ethics. He warned that the practice undermines the integrity of universities and devalues legitimately earned academic qualifications.
Under the new directive, recipients of honorary doctorates will no longer be permitted to prefix their names with “Dr,” a title reserved strictly for individuals who have completed rigorous academic or professional doctoral programmes. The move is expected to draw a clear distinction between earned and honorary qualifications.
In addition, the government has introduced stricter oversight on the award process. Universities will now be required to obtain prior approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) before conferring honorary degrees. This measure is intended to ensure transparency, enforce uniform standards, and prevent arbitrary or excessive awards.
The minister also warned that institutions found violating the new guidelines would face sanctions, while Vice Chancellors have been directed to review and tighten internal procedures governing honorary awards.
Education stakeholders say the policy could mark a turning point in addressing long-standing concerns about the erosion of academic standards in Nigeria. Critics have often argued that the indiscriminate award of honorary degrees diminishes their value and creates confusion in professional and public spaces, where titles carry significant weight.
Analysts further note that the reform may help restore public trust in Nigeria’s higher education system by reinforcing merit-based recognition and discouraging the commercialization of academic honours.
Beyond academia, the policy is also expected to influence public culture, particularly among political and business elites who often use honorary titles in official and social settings. By restricting the use of “Dr” to earned qualifications, the government aims to promote integrity, professionalism, and respect for academic achievement.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to strengthening educational standards and ensuring that honours and titles reflect genuine accomplishment, rather than privilege or influence.
