By Muhammed NA
The Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State, has honoured the Deputy Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims, PhD vide the conferment of a Doctorate Degree (Honoria Causa) in recognition of his outstanding philanthropic disposition and remarkable contributions to the development of the University.
The investiture was conducted by the Governing Council and the University Senate of Prince Abubakar Audu University through the Vice Chancellor by the powers conferred on her and the recommendation of the Council as a Doctor of Legislative Studies (Honoria Causa) as dated; 24th January, 2026.
In an official notification signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Barrister Yahaya Segun Alilu, Ph.D., the University acknowledged Rep. Halims’ contribution to the growth and academic excellence of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba among the committee of Universities in Nigeria.
Rt. Hon Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims in his acceptance thanked almighty Allah for his mercies, the Kogi State Government for its continued support, the University Senate, Management, Staff and Students for finding me worthy of the revered award stressing that He is particularly grateful to his family and the good people of Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency at whose pleasure he has the opportunity to make societal impacts.
The Honorary Doctorate Degree is the University’s highest recognition, specifically reserved for individuals whose contributions have significantly enhanced the institution’s development, improved academic excellence, impacted positive change and demystified true service to the society at large as evident in the stewardship of Rt. Hon Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims.
It can be recalled that Rt. Hon. Halims has made significant input to Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba through the donation of solar-powered street lights to enhance campus security and night life; trained some Lecturers with ICT facilities to aid their lecturing job, donated science equipments to strengthen research and practical training; as well as making the University the first choice of all Hon. Halims Educational Scholarship beneficiaries.
Among other dignitaries, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed usman Ododo who doubles as the University Visitor, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Abdul-Aguye, the Chief Justice of Kogi State, Heads of other tertiary institutions in Kogi State as well as a retinue of Government Officials and distinguished individuals attended the eventful event.
Earlier in her opening remarks, the University Vice Chancellor, Prof Marietu Ohunene Tenuche noted that the combined graduation was for Graduands from the 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 session adding that a total of 26,460; 157; 798 and 190 are graduates of Undergraduate, Postgraduate Diploma, Masters and Doctor of Philosophy Graduates respectively.
The Vice Chancellor sincerely appreciated the Kogi State Governor and his entourage, Honorary Awardees, Past Vice Chancellors as well as other invited guests for their time and contributions to the University’s growth.
