The Federal Government has approved major reforms to regulate the award and use of honorary degrees in Nigerian universities as part of efforts to restore academic integrity and strengthen the credibility of the higher education system.
Briefing journalists after the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, described the policy as a decisive step to end the abuse, politicisation, and commercialisation of honorary academic titles.
Under the new framework, honourary degrees must be clearly designated as honoris causa and cannot be used as earned academic qualifications. Recipients are also prohibited from using the title “Dr” in any official, academic, or professional capacity solely on the basis of honourary awards. Violations will be treated as academic fraud.
The policy further clarifies that honourary degrees do not qualify recipients for academic appointments, professional certifications, or regulated practice. Only four recognised honorary degree categories will now be permitted, and awards can only be conferred by universities with established doctoral programmes.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) will oversee enforcement, monitor compliance, and publish an annual verified register of legitimate honourary degree recipients nationwide.
Mrs. Boriowo Folasade
Director, Press and Public Relations
