FG Bans Honorary Degree Recipients From Using ‘Dr.’ Title In New Policy Reform

The Federal Government has approved a directive prohibiting recipients of honorary degrees from using the “Dr.” title, in a move aimed at curbing the misuse of academic honours.

The decision, ratified by the Federal Executive Council, introduces a regulatory framework to guide how honorary degrees are awarded and referenced by tertiary institutions across the country.

Speaking in Abuja, Minister of Education Tunji Alausa said the policy responds to growing concerns over the abuse and politicisation of honorary doctorates.

He explained that the reform is designed to protect academic integrity and restore public trust, noting that some recipients have been using the title “Doctor” in official settings despite not earning it through academic study.

“Recipients are expected to acknowledge the degree as an award or recognition and not as a formal academic qualification,” he said, warning that misrepresentation could attract legal and reputational consequences.

The minister added that only universities with established PhD-awarding programmes would be allowed to confer honorary degrees, describing the practice by other institutions as inappropriate.

To enforce compliance, the Federal Ministry of Education, working with the National Universities Commission, will issue guidelines, monitor convocation ceremonies, and publish an annual list of verified honorary degree recipients.

He also noted that the government would collaborate with the media to discourage the improper use of academic titles.

Minister of State for Education Suwaiba Ahmad said the directive gives legal backing to the Keffi Declaration developed by university vice-chancellors, strengthening its implementation.

In addition, the council approved the creation of a National Research and Innovation Development Fund to improve coordination in Nigeria’s research sector and align it with national development priorities.