The Federal Government of Nigeria has banned the use of the “Dr.” title by individuals holding only honorary degrees, as part of efforts to curb academic fraud and restore credibility to the nation’s education system.
The directive was issued through the National Universities Commission (NUC), following concerns over the growing misuse of honorary doctorates across the country.
According to the commission, the “Dr.” title is reserved strictly for individuals who have earned it through academic research or recognized professional qualifications. Holders of honorary degrees are expected to reflect the award appropriately, such as using “honoris causa,” rather than attaching the title to their names.
The government said the decision comes amid rising cases of abuse, including the activities of unaccredited institutions conferring honorary degrees without meeting required academic standards.
Authorities further warned that adopting the “Dr.” prefix without proper qualification may amount to false representation and could attract legal consequences under existing laws.
In addition, the new guidelines place restrictions on the conferment of honorary degrees, including limiting such awards to qualified institutions and discouraging their issuance to serving public officials.