The University of Port Harcourt has conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Doctor of Science in Public Administration (D.Sc. Honoris Causa) on the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and former Governor of Katsina State, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari.
The award recognizes his outstanding contributions to public service, national development, and the advancement of education in Nigeria.
The conferment took place during the university’s 35th Convocation Ceremony, which also marked its 50th Anniversary. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, members of the academic community, and stakeholders from across the country.
As part of the convocation activities, Rt. Hon. Masari delivered a compelling lecture titled “The Role of Universities in Nation-Building.” In his address, he emphasized the pivotal role of universities as hubs for knowledge creation, research, and innovation. He urged institutions of higher learning to be at the forefront of driving economic growth, good governance, and social transformation.
Masari also advocated for stronger collaboration between universities, government, and the private sector to produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also equipped with practical skills essential for national development.
In conferring the honorary degree, the University of Port Harcourt acknowledged Masari’s steadfast dedication to education, his exemplary leadership as Governor of Katsina State, and his strategic role in strengthening TETFund to improve the quality of tertiary education across Nigeria.
This recognition reflects the University’s tradition of honoring individuals whose work has significantly contributed to national progress and human capital development.