BREAKING: Nigerian Govt bans honorary degree holders from using ‘Dr’ title
Federal Government Prohibits Use of ‘Dr’ Title by Honorary Degree Holders
The Federal Government has enacted a ban on the use of the prefix “Dr” by individuals who hold honorary degrees in official, academic, or professional contexts.
Minister of Education Tunji Alausa announced the new directive Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, following a Federal Executive Council meeting.
Alausa described the growing misuse and politicization of honorary degrees as a significant concern. He noted that the practice had become entwined with political patronage and financial incentives. Additionally, he pointed out that the conferral of such degrees on active public officials violates the ethical standards associated with honorary recognitions.
Under the implemented policy, individuals awarded honorary degrees will no longer have the privilege of using the title “Dr” alongside their names. Instead, they must include the full designation of their honorary degree when referencing it.
