NUC Imposes Sanctions on Two Universities for Degree Violations

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has sanctioned two Nigerian universities for breaching its guidelines regarding the awarding of honorary doctorate degrees. Abdullahi Ribadu, the executive secretary of the NUC, made this announcement on Tuesday in Abuja during the commission's 2026 retreat with vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities.

Although the names of the sanctioned institutions were not disclosed, Ribadu stated that these measures are part of the NUC's efforts to ensure adherence to the rules governing honorary degrees. This action follows concerns raised by the commission over the increasing practice of awarding such degrees without proper compliance.

Ribadu noted that the NUC has strengthened its regulations and introduced penalties for non-compliance. The commission had previously warned universities against the indiscriminate awarding and misuse of honorary doctorate degrees, which are meant to honor individuals who have made significant societal contributions.

In February 2026, the NUC released a 16-point guideline for awarding honorary doctorate degrees, developed in accordance with the Education Act.