…confers Honorary Doctorate on former President Jonathan
Nile University of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening quality education, innovation, and globally competitive learning during its 13th Convocation Ceremony held in Abuja.
The university also conferred an honorary doctorate degree on former President Goodluck Jonathan during the ceremony, which also marked the graduation of the institution’s first set of PhD Law students.
Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, Dilli Dogo, Vice-Chancellor said Jonathan was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree in Political Science and International Relations, for his exemplary statesmanship, commitment to strengthening democracy, and continued efforts toward peace and good governance across Africa.
He noted that the former president’s leadership and post-office contributions continue to inspire a new generation of African leaders.
Dogo also highlighted the growing global recognition of the university’s qualifications, revealing that the United Kingdom General Medical Council, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates, and leading global cybersecurity bodies have accepted its degrees.
He added that Nile University’s membership in Honoris United Universities aligns with its mission of producing globally competitive graduates equipped with practical skills for the modern workforce.
“Africa missed the first three industrial revolutions. We must not lose out in the fourth,” he said.
He reiterated the university’s investment in state-of-the-art facilities, including the College of Health Sciences and the Medical Simulations Centre.
In his acceptance speech, Jonathan urged tertiary institutions to stop awarding honorary degrees to serving political office holders, insisting that such honours should be reserved for individuals who have made proven contributions to society outside political power.
“It is better when you leave office and people can objectively appreciate your contributions, so it does not appear like eye service,” he said. He commended Nile University for its academic excellence and role in shaping responsible future leaders.
John Vermaaten, the Pro-Chancellor, in his address to the graduating class of 2025, described the ceremony as a celebration of achievement and resilience.
He stated that Nile University is now firmly positioned as a leader in higher education in Nigeria and beyond, citing record enrolment, expanded facilities, strong governance, and a 100 percent programme accreditation success rate.
Vermaaten urged the graduates to uphold integrity, embrace lifelong learning, and become problem solvers committed to national and global development.
“Dear graduates, today the world opens its arms to welcome you. You leave here not just with degrees, but with degrees, skills, an indomitable spirit, resilience that Nile University has nurtured in you. As you step into your next chapter, I urge you to carry these guiding principles.
“Carry your integrity. Let your character be your greatest credential. In a world searching for honesty and courage, be the light that others look up to.
“Commit to lifelong learning. The journey of knowledge does not end today. The world will evolve, embrace change, seek new wisdom, and keep growing,” he stated
The convocation also featured valedictory speeches from the overall best graduating students, Tosam-Jesse Winter (Electrical & Electronics Engineering) and Fatima Kabir Abubakar (Petroleum & Gas Engineering), both of whom finished with a perfect CGPA of 5.0.
They credited their success to discipline, family support, and the enabling academic environment provided by the university.
The event was attended by Abubakar El-Kanemi, Chancellor and Shehu of Borno, former Governors Rotimi Amaechi and Sule Lamido; senior university officials; and partners including Zenith Bank, Stanbic IBTC, Providus Bank, ACCA, Alpha Morgan, Renmoney, and others who presented awards to exceptional students.
While Wednesday’s ceremony was for undergraduates, the convocation for postgraduate students was held on Thursday.
