Former INEC Chairman and current Chairman of the Governing Council of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Professor Attahiru Jega, has criticized the growing trend of Nigerian universities awarding honorary degrees to individuals without academic merit.
Speaking at the 14th convocation lecture of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja on Friday, April 11, 2025, Jega described the act as a betrayal of the academic system.
He applauded the graduating students for their hard work and commitment, noting that it is deeply unfair for a student to spend four or more years studying, and a lecturer to devote time to research, only for someone with no formal education or classroom experience to be honored with a degree for political or selfish reasons.
“This is a stain on the integrity and respect of Nigerian universities,”; he said.
Jega further emphasized that such practices are undermining the value of education in the country. He urged students, educators, and institutions to stand firm in protecting academic excellence and resist the politicization of honorary awards.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, reminisced about a time when Nigerian education was globally respected. He noted that while the country still maintains a level of prestige, political influence is threatening to erode it if caution is not taken.
