The Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has approved the conferment of honorary degrees on Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Sale at the institution’s 44th convocation ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2025.
The decision followed recommendations by the Honorary Degrees Committee, which were endorsed by the University Senate during its 544th special meeting. The approval was finalized at the council’s 207th (special) meeting held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.
According to a statement released by the Public Affairs Directorate, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, both recipients have accepted the honor.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), will be conferred with a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) Honoris Causa. Okonjo-Iweala, a renowned global finance expert and economist, is recognized for her over 40 years of experience in international development, spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and North America. She made history in March 2021 as the first woman and first African to lead the WTO.
Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Sale will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D) Honoris Causa in recognition of his contributions to society.
The convocation ceremony is expected to celebrate their exceptional achievements and contributions to global and national development.
