NUC Declares War on 'Honorary Degree Mills,' Releases New Rules for Honorary Degree Holders

 

NUC Declares War on 'Honorary Degree Mills,' Bans Fake 'Doctors'

Abuja, November 21, 2025 – The National Universities Commission (NUC) has launched a major crackdown on institutions selling fraudulent honorary doctorate degrees, naming 32 entities as "degree mills" and issuing a strict ban on recipients using the title "Dr."

The move, announced by the NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, aims to "defend the dignity of the Nigerian higher education system" against a growing tide of academic fraud.

The Commission's investigation uncovered a network of 32 illegitimate institutions, comprising 10 unaccredited foreign universities, 4 unlicensed local universities, 15 professional bodies with no power to award degrees, and 3 other non-degree-awarding institutions. The report alarmingly noted that some of these entities even award fake professorships.

"The findings are deeply concerning," the NUC stated, highlighting that many institutions flout the 2004 Education Act and the Keffi Declaration of 2012, which prohibits awarding honorary degrees to serving public officials.

New Rules for Honorary Degree Holders

To curb misuse, the NUC has clarified the legal protocol for honorary degree recipients. While they may use the specific nomenclature of the award—such as Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) or the title D. Litt. (h.c.)—they are expressly forbidden from using the prefix "Dr."

The Commission emphasized that the title "Dr." is a legally protected designation exclusively for holders of earned PhDs and medical personnel. Using it based on an honorary degree constitutes false representation, which is punishable under Nigerian fraud laws.

"Additionally, they are not permitted to use the honorary doctorate degree to practise as scholars or professionals, supervise research, or oversee administrative units," Professor Ribadu clarified.

National Guideline and Imminent Clampdown

The NUC has developed a national guideline for the award and use of honorary doctorate degrees, which will be published soon. The Commission also pledged to begin a coordinated clampdown on degree mills in collaboration with law enforcement and other government agencies.

"We are soliciting the support of all stakeholders... in restoring honour to our honorary degrees," Professor Ribadu concluded, calling for a collective effort to protect the integrity of the country's academic qualifications.

READ FULL PRESS STATEMENT

NATIONAL UNIVERSITIES COMMISSION

NUC Secretariat, Aja Nwachukwu House, 26, Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama
FCT – Abuja, Nigeria

21 November, 2025

CURBING THE MISUSE OF HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREES IN NIGERIA

Distinguished Members of the Press

Ladies and Gentlemen

We are here today to shed light on a matter of growing national concern. This is the award and misuse of honorary doctorate degrees in Nigeria.

Honorary doctorate degrees are meant to recognise outstanding service or achievements of an individual. Unfortunately, these awards have increasingly been misused by recipients. More troubling is the rise of unaccredited and illegal institutions (both local and foreign) that operate as honorary doctorate degree mills in Nigeria. They offer these degrees without merit, without oversight, and without legitimacy.

In response to this disturbing trend, an investigation was carried out by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to examine how these degrees are awarded and used across Nigeria. The findings are deeply concerning. This is especially so because many institutions do not comply with the Keffi Declaration of 2012. This is the policy agreed upon by Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian universities to regulate the award of honorary doctorate degrees. It prohibits the award of honorary degrees to serving public officials and cautions recipients against using the title “Dr” without proper disclosure.

This is not just a matter of ethics; it is a matter of law. Using the title "Dr" based on an honorary degree without clarification amounts to false representation which is punishable under various fraud-related laws in Nigeria. Beyond the legal implications, this trend threatens the integrity of our universities and the value of genuine academic qualifications. It undermines the hard work of scholars and diminishes public trust in our education system.

The report of the investigation identifies 32 institutions operating as honorary doctorate degree mills, including 10 unaccredited foreign universities, 4 unlicensed local universities, 15 professional bodies with no degree-awarding powers, and 3 other non-degree-awarding institutions. It should be noted that this figure may not be exhaustive. It is even more alarming that some of these institutions go as far as awarding fake professorships.

Let us be clear; awarding honorary degrees is a legal responsibility of Nigerian universities and the Education (National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions) Act, Chapter E2, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, L. F. N. 2004, empowers the National Universities Commission to regulate the award and use of honorary doctorate degrees in Nigeria. Hence, the Commission is determined to guide the proper use of honorary degrees, regulate their awards, as well as protect the sanctity of our university educational system.

For the avoidance of doubt, only approved universities (either public or private) are eligible to award honorary doctorate degrees in Nigeria. Furthermore, the recipients of the awards are at liberty to use the nomenclature, such as Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) or the title D. Litt. (h.c.) at the end of their names, but they must refrain from using the title “Dr” which is the designation for PhD holders and medical personnel. Additionally, they are not permitted to use the honorary doctorate degree to practise as scholars or professionals, supervise research or oversee administrative units.

In conclusion, the National Universities Commission has developed a national guideline for the award and use of honorary doctorate degrees. This will soon be published, and the Commission will begin a clampdown on honorary degree mills in collaboration with law enforcement and other relevant government agencies.

We are soliciting the support of all stakeholders, relevant government agencies, and the public in restoring honour to our honorary degrees.

Let us defend the dignity of the Nigerian higher education.

Thank you.

Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu

Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission

Bianca Ojukwu Urges Calm After Nnamdi Kanu’s Conviction, Calls for United Igbo Dialogue (Press Statement)

 

Following the conviction and sentencing of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on terrorism charges, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has appealed for calm, restraint, and collective engagement among Igbo stakeholders and Nigerians at large.

In a statement issued on 21 November 2025, Ojukwu described the development as “a sad reality” and “not the outcome we anticipated nor prayed for.” She emphasized that the moment calls for sober reflection rather than emotional or incendiary reactions that could worsen tensions both locally and in the diaspora.

Ojukwu cautioned against actions that might escalate the situation, warning that anger-driven responses could yield “diminishing returns” or create “yet another wasteland.”

She urged a broad-based, constructive dialogue involving South-East governors, senators, federal lawmakers, traditional rulers, clergy, politicians, and business leaders, noting that only a united, sincere engagement with government can pave the way for a peaceful political resolution.

Reaffirming her commitment to ongoing consultations, Ojukwu assured Ndigbo, Nigerians, and the international community that avenues still exist to resolve the impasse in a manner that reduces national anxiety.

“Now is the time for us all in Ala Igbo to put all hands on deck,” she said, appealing for patience and unity as discussions continue.

Ojukwu issued the statement shortly after returning from an NTAC monitoring mission in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Read Full Press Statement:

Re. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's sentence on 20th November 2025. I have just returned from Zanzibar, Tanzania, where I have been for the past five days on NTAC monitoring exercise to the sad news of the conviction and sentencing of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on terrorism charges. 

This is not the outcome we anticipated, nor prayed for, but a reality that is now upon us. There comes a time in the history of a people when there is need for calm. I therefore advise Ndigbo, and Nigerians as a whole, that such a period is now! There is utmost need to exercise restraint in response to this situation. 

All actions which could be deemed incendiary, and which might escalate the situation at home or in the diaspora should be curtailed. A word is enough for the wise. This situation requires careful reflection and constructive dialogue involving all Igbo stakeholders, Governors, senators, Members of the House of Representatives, clergy, traditional rulers, politicians and business people to engage with government authorities collectively. Beating the drums of fury and sabre rattling will only generate diminishing returns, and in the worst case scenario, yet another wasteland. 

 The most effective path toward resolution of this crisis is dialogue. The quest for mutual coexistence of Ndigbo in Nigeria with justice, equity and dignity is a commitment which requires our collective resolve, and maintaining peace and order is essential to ensuring the security of all citizens, regardless of tribe or creed. I would like to reassure Ndigbo, Nigerians and our foreign partners that there are still prospects of resolving this impasse in a manner that reduces national anxiety and societal trauma. 

I oblige everyone to remain calm and patient. Over the years I have continued to engage on these issues with several stakeholders. Now is the time for us all in Ala Igbo to put all hands on deck, and to have a joint engagement , sincerely, involving all the South Eastern States, to seek a political resolution to this matter. 

Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu 
21 November 2025.

2025 Admission: JAMB Warns Institutions Against Forcing Candidates to Change Programmes (A Must Read)

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has cautioned tertiary institutions against using their internal portals to pressure candidates into changing from their preferred courses to less-subscribed programmes.

In a statement issued on Monday, November 3, 2025, the Board described the act as unethical and manipulative, noting that it undermines the merit-based admission process put in place to ensure fairness and transparency.

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According to JAMB, some institutions have been persuading top-ranked candidates on the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) to switch programmes in order to create space for less-qualified applicants favored by the institutions.

“All admission processes in Nigeria are conducted exclusively through CAPS,” the statement read. “Any change of programme or admission activity done outside this platform is unauthorized, unethical, and detrimental to the affected candidates.”

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JAMB warned that any candidate who yields to such institutional pressure and later changes programmes on CAPS would be deemed to have acted voluntarily, and the Board would not be held responsible for the consequences.

Preliminary investigations, JAMB added, revealed that a university in the South-West and another in Abuja are involved in this malpractice. The Board said it has commenced regulatory actions to address the issue and protect candidates’ interests.

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Candidates were urged to remain vigilant and carry out all admission-related activities only through the JAMB CAPS portal.

JAMB reiterated its commitment to ensuring fairness, equity, and transparency in the 2025 admission exercise and beyond.

— Dr. Fabian Benjamin, Head of Media, JAMB

PRESS RELEASE

3rd November, 2025

DON'T FALL FOR INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE OF PROGRAMME

The attention of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has been drawn to reports that some institutions are using their internal portals to persuade or pressure qualified candidates, particularly those ranked highly on the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), to change from their preferred programmes to less-subscribed ones.

This unethical practice is designed to create room for the institutions' preferred candidates to move up in the admission ranking order, a clear manipulation of the merit-based process established to ensure transparency and fairness.

The Board wishes to remind all candidates and institutions that all admission processes in Nigeria are conducted exclusively through CAPS, the platform created to ensure accountability, transparency, and equal opportunity in admission placements. Any change of programme or admission activity carried out outside the JAMB CAPS is unauthorized, unethical, and ultimately detrimental to the affected candidates.

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For institutions to engage in such backdoor maneuvers clearly indicates an intent to deceive and shortchange candidates, and such acts will not be condoned by the Board.

Consequently, candidates are strongly advised to disregard any invitation or request to change programmes made through institutional portals or unofficial channels.

Furthermore, the Board warns that any change of programme eventually effected on CAPS after a candidate has been influenced or persuaded by an institution through its own portal will be deemed voluntary on the part of the candidate. In such instances, JAMB will not be held responsible for the consequences of that decision.

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Preliminary investigations have revealed that a university in the South-West and another in Abuja have been involved in this practice. The Board has initiated appropriate regulatory steps to address these unethical acts and to ensure that candidates' interests are fully protected.

Candidates are therefore urged to remain vigilant and conduct all admission-related activities strictly through the JAMB CAPS portal. The Board reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ensuring that all qualified candidates are treated with fairness, equity, and transparency in the 2025 admission exercise and beyond.

Dr. Fabian Benjamin
Head of Media, JAMB

2026 New Tax Laws: Fifty (50) Tax Exemptions And Reliefs You Must Know

 

𝐅𝐈𝐅𝐓𝐘 (50) 𝐓𝐀𝐗 𝐄𝐗𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐅𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐋𝐋 𝐁𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐅𝐈𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐓𝐀𝐗 𝐑𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌 𝐋𝐀𝐖𝐒 From 1 January 2026, the new tax laws will provide many reliefs and exemptions for low-income earners, average taxpayers, and small businesses including:   𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐱 𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐀𝐘𝐄 1. Individuals earning the national minimum wage or less (exempt) 2. Annual gross income up to ₦1,200,000 (translating to about ₦800,000 taxable income) is exempt 3. Reduced PAYE tax for those earning annual gross income up to ₦20 million 4. Gifts (exempt) 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 & 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐟𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 5. Pension contribution to PFA 6. National Health Insurance Scheme 7. National Housing Fund contributions 8. Interest on loans for owner-occupied residential housing 9. Life insurance or annuity premiums 10. Rent relief - 20% of annual rent (up to ₦500,000)   𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 & 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 - 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 11. Pension funds and assets under the Pension Reform Act (PRA) are tax-exempt. 12. Pension, gratuity or any retirement benefits granted in line with the PRA 13. Compensation for loss of employment up to ₦50 million   𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐓𝐚𝐱 (𝐂𝐆𝐓) - 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 14. Sale of an owner-occupied house 15. Personal effects or chattels worth up to ₦5 million 16. Sale of up to two private vehicles per year 17. Gains on shares below ₦150 million per year or gains up to ₦10 million 18. Gains on shares above exemption threshold if the proceed is reinvested 19. Pension funds, charities, and religious institutions (non-commercial)   𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐱 (𝐂𝐈𝐓) - 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 20. Small companies (turnover not more than ₦100 million and total fixed assets not more than ₦250 million) pay 0% tax 21. Eligible (labelled) startups are exempt 22. Compensation relief - 50% additional deduction for salary increases, wage awards, or transport subsidies for low-income workers 23. Employment relief - 50% deduction for salaries of new employees hired and retained for at least three years 24. Tax holiday for the first 5-years for agricultural businesses (crop production, livestock, dairy etc) 25. Gains from investment in a labeled startup by venture capitalist, private equity fund, accelerators or incubators    𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐲 - 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 26. Small companies are exempt from 4% development levy   𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐚𝐱 - 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 27. Small companies, manufacturers and agric businesses are exempt from withholding tax deduction on their income 28. Small companies are exempt from deduction on their payments to suppliers 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐚𝐱 (𝐕𝐀𝐓) - 0% 𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 29. Basic food items - 0% VAT 30. Rent - Exempt 31. Education services and materials - 0% VAT 32. Health and medical services 33. Pharmaceutical products - 0% VAT 34. Small companies (≤ ₦100m turnover) are exempt from charging VAT 35. Diesel, petrol, and solar power equipment - VAT suspended or exempt 36. Refund of VAT on assets and overheads to produce VATable or 0% VAT goods and services 37. Agricultural inputs - fertilizers, seeds, seedlings, feeds, and live animals 38. Purchase, lease or hire of equipment for agric purposes  39. Disability aids - hearing aids, wheelchairs, braille materials 40. Transport - shared passenger road transport (non-charter) 41. Electric vehicles and parts - exempt 42. Humanitarian supplies - exempt 43. Baby products  44. Sanitary towels, pads or tampons 45. Land and building   𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩 𝐃𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 - 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 46. Electronic money transfers below ₦10,000 47. Salary payments 48. Intra-bank transfers 49. Transfers of government securities or shares 50. All documents for transfer of stocks and shares   Share this good news with everyone you care about who needs to know.  𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐋𝐔𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐆𝐎𝐎𝐃   Nominate a content creator who’s been educating their audience about Nigeria’s new tax reform laws or someone you’d like to see do so. We’ll be selecting the top 20 creators with the most nominations for a special training to help them share accurate, balanced, and useful tax information with their followers. Misinformation spreads fast, often to the author’s benefit but to the audience’s loss. Accurate information may travel slower, but it empowers everyone, and earns lasting trust.

BREAKING: JAMB Extends Deadline for 2025 Public University Admissions to November 17

 

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced an extension of the deadline for the completion of 2025 admissions into public universities from Friday, October 31, 2025, to Monday, November 17, 2025.

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In a statement signed by Dr. Fabian Benjamin, Head of Media and Public Affairs, the Board said the decision followed “emergent and compelling circumstances” that made it necessary to grant additional time to universities.

According to JAMB, the Association of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (AVCNU) appealed for the extension due to disruptions caused by a court order that temporarily halted the 2025/2026 admission process. The order, which directed that the status quo be maintained, was only lifted on October 28, 2025.

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Additionally, the Board explained that the recent accreditation of 229 new programmes across 37 universities by the National Universities Commission (NUC) required extra time for institutions to process fresh admissions into the approved courses.

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While commending universities for their commitment to meeting the initial deadline, JAMB emphasized that this new date would be the final extension.

“This new deadline is final and must be strictly adhered to,” the statement read.

JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a transparent, credible, and inclusive admission process in line with national education goals and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

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