By Hadiza Abdulkadir
The Federal Government of Nigeria has barred recipients of honorary degrees from using the “Dr.” prefix in official and professional settings, warning that violations could amount to academic fraud.
Announcing the decision after a meeting of the Federal Executive Council, Education Minister Tunji Alausa said the move is aimed at curbing the abuse and politicisation of academic titles.
Mr Alausa further clarified that only holders of earned doctorates or qualified medical professionals may use the title, while honorary awardees must instead adopt post-nominal forms such as D.Sc. (Honoris Causa).
The National Universities Commission has also introduced stricter rules, limiting institutions to three honorary awards per convocation, requiring prior approval, and banning awards to serving public officials.
The reforms follow an investigation that uncovered 32 illegal “degree mills” selling fake titles, as authorities seek to restore credibility to Nigeria’s academic system.