Bukola Afeni
The Federal Government has approved new reforms to regulate the award and use of honorary degrees in Nigerian universities as part of efforts to restore integrity and credibility to the country’s higher education system.
In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the policy was approved following the Federal Executive Council meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday.
Alausa described the move as “a decisive step to end the abuse, politicisation, and commercialisation of honorary academic titles.”
Under the new framework, honorary degrees must now be clearly designated as honoris causa and cannot be presented or used as earned academic qualifications.
The government also barred recipients of honorary awards from using the title “Dr” in any official, academic, or professional capacity solely on the basis of such honours.
“Violations will be treated as academic fraud,” the statement said.
The policy further stated that honorary degrees would no longer qualify recipients for academic appointments, professional certifications, or regulated professional practice.
According to the government, only four recognised honorary degree categories will now be permitted, while awards can only be conferred by universities that have established doctoral programmes.
The National Universities Commission will oversee enforcement of the new regulations, monitor compliance by universities, and publish an annual verified register of legitimate honorary degree recipients across the country.
The Federal Government said the reforms are aimed at restoring public confidence in university honours and strengthening academic standards nationwide.
