By Emmanuel Awari,Jalingo
Kwararafa University, Wukari, in Taraba State, Nigeria, conferred honorary doctorate degrees on Chief David Sabo Kente (DSK), former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Andrew Yakubu, and the Atah-Igala, Matthew Alaji Opaluwa Oguche, Chairman of the Kogi State Traditional Council.
The awards were presented on Saturday during the university’s 2nd combined convocation ceremony for the 2017-2024 graduating classes.
Representing Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, Deputy Governor Alhaji Aminu Alkali congratulated the graduates, highlighting the state’s commitment to education by making primary and secondary schooling free and reducing tuition fees in tertiary institutions.
“You have achieved the degree of your dreams,” Alkali said. “Education is the cornerstone of development, and I urge you to use your experience to impact society.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Shishi Zhema praised the honorees for their achievements and contributions to the university.
He apologized for delays in certificate issuance and announced that the institution had recently secured full accreditation from the National Universities Commission.
“Our goal is to build a vibrant academic community that can adapt to emerging challenges,” Zhema noted, thanking state officials and key supporters, including Chief Kente, Yakubu, and Taraba’s Chief Judge, Justice Joel Agya.
On behalf of the awardees, Chief Dr. David Sabo Kente expressed gratitude for the honor, emphasizing the historical ties between the Igala people and the Kwararafa Kingdom.
He acknowledged the challenges that accompany such honors and the need for national development.
The convocation featured remarks from other dignitaries, including Mr. Yakubu, who is also the university’s Pro-Chancellor.
He announced a N10 million donation to establish a department dedicated to Kwararafa history.
The Aku-Uka of Wukari, Ishaku Adda Ali Matakhiswen, urged graduates to apply their knowledge in tackling global challenges, while the university’s Governing Board Chairman, Dr. Danjuma Gani, celebrated the students’ achievements and resilience.
The event concluded with messages of hope and encouragement for the new graduates as they embarked on their post-university journeys.