The National Universities Commission (NUC) has introduced stricter regulations governing the award of honorary degrees in Nigerian universities, including a prohibition on recipients using the “Dr.” title.

The Commission explained that the new policy is intended to address the growing misuse and indiscriminate awarding of honorary degrees, a practice it said has diminished the credibility of genuine academic qualifications.

Under the revised guidelines, only universities that have successfully graduated their first set of PhD students will be permitted to confer honorary degrees. This effectively excludes newer institutions from awarding such honours.

The NUC further clarified that individuals who receive honorary degrees are not allowed to prefix their names with “Dr.” Instead, they are expected to use appropriate post-nominal titles such as Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa), abbreviated as D.Sc (H.C).

The Commission stressed that the “Dr.” title is reserved exclusively for those who have earned doctoral degrees or are licensed medical practitioners.

Additionally, the NUC banned any form of financial inducement in the awarding process, stating that honorary degrees must be strictly merit-based and awarded without payment.

To ensure greater control and uniformity, universities are now restricted to awarding a maximum of three honorary degrees per convocation ceremony. The guidelines also prohibit self-nominations and bar serving public officials whether elected or appointed from receiving honorary degrees.

As part of efforts to enhance transparency, institutions are required to publish the names of honorary degree recipients on their official websites. They are also expected to establish clear mechanisms for withdrawing such honours from individuals found guilty of misconduct after being awarded.

The Commission emphasised that honorary degrees do not grant academic or professional privileges, including the authority to practise regulated professions, supervise academic research, or hold administrative positions within universities.

It warned that institutions that fail to comply with the new rules will face regulatory sanctions.

According to the NUC, the reforms are aimed at safeguarding the integrity and global reputation of Nigeria’s higher education system, ensuring that academic honours remain a true reflection of merit, excellence, and academic distinction.