Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has announced plans to award honorary degrees to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Sale Al-Hussain. The prestigious awards will be conferred during the university’s 44th Convocation Ceremony on January 25, 2025.
The university’s Senate and Governing Council approved this decision following a recommendation by the Honorary Degrees Committee. The approval was finalized during the 544th (Special) Senate meeting on January 7, 2025, and the 207th Governing Council meeting on January 8, 2025.
Okonjo-Iweala: A Trailblazer in Global Finance
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, an internationally recognized economist and finance expert, will receive a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degree. With a career spanning over four decades, Okonjo-Iweala has held prominent roles, including serving twice as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and as the first woman and first African to lead the WTO.
“Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a global finance expert, economist, and international development professional with over 40 years of experience across multiple continents, including Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and North America,” stated the university’s Public Affairs Directorate in a press release.
Born on June 13, 1954, in Delta State, Nigeria, Okonjo-Iweala began her education at Queen’s School, Enugu, and St. Anne’s School, Ibadan. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Harvard University in 1976 and a PhD in Regional Economics and Development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1981.
Her groundbreaking career has not gone unnoticed. “She is a remarkable figure in international trade and finance, whose contributions continue to inspire millions globally,” the university emphasized.
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Sheikh Al-Hussain: A Beacon of Islamic Scholarship
Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Sale Al-Hussain, a revered Islamic scholar, will be awarded a Doctor of Laws (LL.D) Honoris Causa degree in recognition of his extensive contributions to Islamic scholarship. Born on May 12, 1938, in Borno State, Nigeria, Sheikh Al-Hussain has authored over 500 books and pamphlets covering a wide range of disciplines, including Qur’anic studies, philosophy, and jurisprudence.
“Sheikh Al-Hussain has balanced modern and traditional approaches to religious scholarship,” the university noted, adding that his unique methodology has earned him respect from scholars around the globe. “He has engaged with scholars worldwide, undergoing rigorous scrutiny at prestigious centers of Islamic learning beyond Nigeria and Africa.”
The university praised his lifelong dedication to scholarship, saying, “Sheikh Ibrahim Sale is a beacon of knowledge whose works have enriched Islamic thought and inspired generations.”
Honorees Accept Awards
Both honorees have graciously accepted the university’s recognition. According to ABU, the awards celebrate their “outstanding contributions to their respective fields,” with Dr. Okonjo-Iweala exemplifying excellence in global finance and economics, and Sheikh Al-Hussain serving as a pillar of Islamic knowledge and tradition.
As ABU prepares for its 44th Convocation Ceremony, the conferment of these honorary degrees highlights the university’s commitment to celebrating individuals who have made significant impacts on a global scale.