NILE University of Nigeria, Abuja has conferred an honorary doctorate on former President Goodluck Jonathan.
News Point Nigeria reports that the university said the honour reflects its commitment to acknowledging individuals whose work has had a meaningful and lasting impact on society.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the university’s 13th convocation, Vice‑Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Dilli Dogo, said the former president was chosen in recognition of his statesmanship, his contributions to strengthening democracy, and his efforts in promoting peace and good governance across Africa.
Dogo noted that, “Jonathan’s leadership style and post‑presidency engagements have continued to inspire a new generation of African leaders.
“The university is proud to associate with individuals who exemplify integrity, service, and a commitment to national progress.”
Dogo further highlighted the growing international recognition of Nile University degrees, announcing that the United Kingdom General Medical Council, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates, and leading global cybersecurity bodies have all accepted the university’s qualifications.
“Nile University remains a distinguished member of Honoris United Universities, the continent’s largest private higher‑education network, comprising 16 institutions across 10 African countries,” Dogo said.
He added that the Honoris philosophy of “Education for Impact” aligns with the school’s mission to produce globally competitive graduates equipped with the practical competencies needed in the modern workforce.
“Africa missed the first three industrial revolutions. We must not lose out in the fourth. Our programmes are designed to ensure that the quality of education we provide is second to none,” he added.
Receiving the award, an Honoris Causa in Political Science and International Relations, Jonathan lauded the university for the quality of its programmes and its steady growth over the years, noting that institutions like Nile University of Nigeria continue to play a vital role in shaping a new generation of responsible leaders.
He stated, “It is better when you leave office and people can objectively appreciate your contributions, so it does not appear like eye service.”
While congratulating the graduands, he underscored the need for character over mere certificates, stating that education should lead to personal transformation and good behaviour.
He also urged them to uphold integrity, discipline, and a commitment to national development as they step into the next phase of their lives.
In their valedictory speeches, the overall best graduating students, Tosam‑Jesse Winter of the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department and Fatima Kabir Abubakar of the Petroleum and Gas Engineering Department, both with a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 5.0, thanked the university management, their families, and lecturers for the support that shaped their academic journeys.
The duo described their achievements as the result of discipline, resilience, and a conducive learning environment provided by Nile University.
The event was graced by the Chancellor of the University and Shehu of Borno, HRH Abubakar El‑Kanemi; Pro‑Chancellor John Vermaaten; former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi; his Jigawa counterpart Sule Lamido, among others.
Founded in 2009 in Abuja, Nile University of Nigeria is a private multidisciplinary institution offering more than 40 undergraduate and 50 postgraduate programmes across eight faculties.
It has been a member of Honoris United Universities since 2 July 2020, part of Africa’s largest private higher‑education network (16 institutions in 10 countries) with the motto “Education for Impact.”
The university contributes to the network’s goals of boosting employability, fostering innovation, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.