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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has announced plans to confer honorary degrees on Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Sale during its 44th Convocation Ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2025.
The decision was approved by the university’s Governing Council following recommendations by the Honorary Degrees Committee and subsequent endorsement by the Senate. Both honorees have accepted the recognition, according to a statement from ABU’s Director of Public Affairs.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), will receive a Doctor of Science (D.Sc) Honoris Causa. Renowned for her contributions to global finance and development, Okonjo-Iweala has over 40 years of experience working across continents.
A former Finance Minister of Nigeria, she led debt relief negotiations with the Paris Club, resulting in the cancellation of $18 billion of Nigeria’s debt. She is also credited with introducing fiscal reforms, improving transparency, and securing Nigeria’s first sovereign credit rating.
Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Sale Al-Hussain, an eminent Islamic scholar, will be conferred with a Doctor of Laws (LL.D) Honoris Causa.
Born in Borno State, Sheikh Ibrahim Sale has authored over 500 works on Islamic scholarship, philosophy, and jurisprudence. Known for bridging traditional and modern approaches to Islamic studies, he has represented Nigeria on various religious and academic missions globally.
The university described both honorees as exemplary individuals whose achievements align with ABU’s values and aspirations.
