Kwararafa University Bestows Honorary Degrees on Attah Igala, Andrew Yakubu, Kente at Convocation

By Eleojo Samuel, Jalingo

In a grand ceremony at Kwararafa University Wukari, Taraba State, three distinguished Nigerians were awarded honorary doctorate degrees in recognition of their contributions to society and the university.
The honorees included Attah-Igala Mathew Alaji Oguche, former Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Andrew Yakubu, and former finance director of the National Assembly David Kente.

The event, which took place on Saturday, marked the university’s 2nd combined convocation, covering the 2017 to 2024 graduating classes. Attah Igala Mathew Alaji Oguche received a Doctor of Letters degree, Yakubu was honored with a Doctor of Science, and Kente received a Doctor of Public Service.

Prof. Shishi Zhema, Vice Chancellor of Kwararafa University, congratulated the honorees, noting, “Today, we celebrate your remarkable contributions to society and the inspiration you bring to future generations.” He also reminded them of the responsibilities that come with these distinctions.

In his remarks, Yakubu, who serves as the university’s Pro Chancellor, pledged a N10 million donation to establish a department focused on Kwararafa history, expressing pride in his heritage from the historic Kwararafa Kingdom. Kente called on other descendants to support the university’s growth.

Prof. Zhema addressed the challenges of holding convocation ceremonies, acknowledging that this was only the second in the university’s history. He committed to making convocations an annual event to promptly recognize graduates’ achievements.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted recent advancements, including increased enrollment, accreditation of all programs, and the launch of postgraduate studies. He emphasized the university’s commitment to sustainable growth through diversified funding, improved staff welfare, and strategic partnerships.

The ceremony celebrated 26 students who graduated with First Class Honours, with nine receiving prestigious awards. The event underscored Kwararafa University’s expanding role as a center for higher education and social transformation, marking a new chapter of achievement and growth for both the university and its graduates.