Tanzania commends UI over Ph.D. award to Julius Nyerere of Tanzania

The government of the United Republic of Tanzania has lauded the University of Ibadan (UI) for recognising the activities of Tanzanian anti-colonial activist, politician and political theorist, who was the President until 1985, Julius Kambarage Nyerere, by awarding him a Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa) in 1976.

According to a statement made available to The Guardian in Ibadan by the Public Relations Officer (PRO), Directorate of Public Communication of the institution, Adejoke Akinpelu, Tanzania made this known through its High Commissioner in Nigeria, Dr. Benson Alfred Bana.

Bana gave the commendation when he was received by the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale.

The High Commissioner noted that the decision of the university to recognise the immense contributions of the late sage to the cause of pan-Africanism and Humanity gave him a strong reason to visit the UI to express the appreciation of his country for the bold and revolutionary decision of the then leadership of the university to recognise the father of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Bana said Tanzania celebrated the 100th post-humous birthday of Nyerere on April 23, 2022, adding that the country is also celebrating its 60th independence anniversary in 2022.

He then urged robust bilateral relations between his country and Nigeria.

The VC, who thanked his guest for looking into history to remember the efforts of the past, alluded to the unity enjoyed by the people of the United Republic of Tanzania, which according to him, may be largely due to the Swahili language spoken by all, including the elite and illiterate.