In a decisive move to restore academic integrity, the National Universities Commission (NUC) has banned recipients of honorary degrees from using the prestigious “Dr.” title, declaring that the designation is strictly reserved for individuals who have earned it through rigorous academic or professional training.
The directive, which has stirred conversations across academic and social circles, makes it clear that only holders of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees and certified medical practitioners are entitled to prefix their names with “Dr.”
According to the Commission, the increasing trend of honorary degree recipients adopting the title has blurred the lines between earned and ceremonial accolades, undermining the value of genuine academic achievements.
“This clarification is necessary to preserve the credibility and sanctity of Nigeria’s academic system,” the NUC emphasized, noting that honorary degrees are symbolic recognitions and do not confer professional or academic qualifications.
The move is expected to impact a wide range of public figures—including politicians, business moguls, and celebrities—many of whom have long embraced the “Dr.” title based solely on honorary awards from universities.
Education stakeholders have largely welcomed the policy, describing it as a long-overdue step toward upholding standards and discouraging the misuse of academic titles.
With this firm stance, the NUC has drawn a clear line: prestige must be earned—not gifted.
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