Entertainment

Adeboye, Tiwa Savage, Obi Cubana, Other Celebrities Who Received Honorary Degrees In 2022

Published

3 years ago

December 27, 2022

2022 brought showers of national and international academic honours for Nigeria’s famous personalities.

From entertainers, to politicians, and religious heads, several public figures received honorary and actual degrees from national and international universities.

Here is a list of famous Nigerians who earned academic recognitions in 2022 as compiled by The PUNCH:

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Inarguably one of the most academically decorated persons in Nigeria, Adichie opened the floor for the showers of honours this year after she earned her 16th honorary doctorate degree from the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium in April.

The renowned author also boasts of doctorate degrees from several reputable institutions including Yale University, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Edinburgh, Duke University, Georgetown University, and Johns Hopkins University.

Professor Helen Paul

The comedy and acting powerhouse both shines on stage, and in her academic endeavours.

Paul, who bagged a doctorate degree in Theatre Arts from University of Lagos in 2019, revealed in May of this year that she was promoted to a professorship position at the Heart International University, USA, where she currently works.

The comedian and was also appointed as the Head of Department of Arts, Music and Entertainment at the varsity.

The success was a family affair as Helen’s husband, Femi Bamisile, was also awarded a Doctorate degree in Law, by the same University.

Peter Okoye

Peter, one half of Nigerian music duo, Psquare, bagged an honorary doctorate from the Escae-Benin University, Benin Republic in June.

Announcing the news via his Instagram page, he wrote, “Dear Team P! It’s a great honor to be decorated by a distinguished educational institution, Who have recognized my contribution to Dance and Music as well as my support for the youth in the entertainment industry.”

IK Ogbonna

Ikechukwu Mitchel Ogbonna was another Nigerian celebrity awarded an honorary degree in June 2022.

Institut Superieur De Technologies Et De Management, Togo, awarded Ogbonna a Doctorate (Honorary) Degree of Arts in leadership and Development.

Wole Soyinka

Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, added another feather to his already colourful academic cap in 2022.

The prolific writer bagged an honorary degree from the reputable University of Cambridge, UK, in June.

One of the most prestigious honours in the world, the Cambridge varsity honorary degree is bestowed upon people “who have made outstanding achievements in their respective fields,” the varsity’s official site noted.

The Adeboyes

The founder of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and his wife, Pastor Foluke, both bagged doctorate degrees this year.

In July, Pastor Foluke was conferred a honorary doctorate degree in Education by the Benson Idahosa University Edo.

Likewise, Pastor Adeboye himself received an honorary doctorate degree from the Oral Roberts University, USA in December.

In total, Pastor Adeboye boasts of 8 honorary degrees from different universities in the world.

Tiwa Savage

“Some call me Queen, but it’s Dr Tiwa Savage from now on,” an excited Tiwa said as she gave her acceptance speech during the University of Kent graduation ceremony which held in July.

While the mother-of-one had a rough 2021, 2022 was definitely her year of bouncing back, better and stronger.

Coupled with multiple brand deals and hit features, the songstress bagged an honorary doctorate degree from her alma mater, the University of Kent, UK.

Dubbing her the “Queen of Afrobeats” the University hailed Savage for “her inspirational and international career in music.”

Mishael Maro

Nigerian film director and producer, Mishael Maro, was conferred an Honorary Fellowship of the James Currey Society at the African Studies Centre at the University of Oxford in July.

Maro currently serves as an Academic Visitor at the African Studies Centre, University of Oxford, for the 2022-2023 Academic year

The Fellowship is named in honour of British publisher, James Currey and his contributions to African scholarship and literature.

Ireti Doyle

Wedding Party actress, Ireti Doyle was not left out in the 2022 academic honours galore.

The veteran thespian was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree by the Institut Superieur de Communication et de Gestion University in Benin Republic.

The actress confessed that while she had a “healthy expectation of receiving accolades” she did not envision an academic honour.

Bob Manuel Udokwu

Former Guinness Ultimate Search games master, Bob Manuel, was another Nigerian actor conferred an honorary doctorate degree by the Institut Superieur de Communication et de Gestion University in August.

Ireti Doyle also broke the news and shared their pictures from the ceremony on her Instagram page.

Both veteran actors incidentally both featured in the movie, Living in Bondage, which clocked 30 years on the day they were both conferred the award.

Queen Silekunola Naomi Ogunwusi

Queen Silekunola, estranged wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi was also decorated with academic honours this year.

In September, the Queen was conferred an honorary doctorate by the Myles Leadership University, Benin Republic.

Rejoicing via her Instagram page, the prophetess wrote, “While you walk through this world, please work hard. The heat will come but the honours will soon follow.”

Kaffy

Popular dancer, Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau, also known as Kaffy, was also honoured with a doctorate degree from Myles Leadership University in September.

The 2022 honour is her second, as she earlier bagged a doctorate degree from Escae Benin University, Benin Republic, in 2020.

Adesua Etomi-Wellington

The multi-award winning Nollywood actress not only bags awards for her performances on stage, she was also given a nod in the academic world this year.

In September, Wellington was awarded an honorary doctorate degree by her alma mater, the University of Wolverhampton.

In a statement by the UK varsity, Etomi was lauded for her “phenomenal contribution to arts and culture”.

Obi Cubana

Nigerian businessman and socialite, Obinna Iyiegbu was among the several celebrities conferred with honorary degrees this year.

The club owner bagged a honorary Doctor of Business Administration from the Enugu State University in November.

Celebrating the win, Cubana wrote on his Instagram page, “He wrote, “Ladies and Gentlemen. You may wish to address me henceforth as Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu Okpataozueora 1! (Dr. Of Business Administration).”

Sunday Igboho

In November, Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeymo alias Igboho was also conferred with academic honours.

Igboho was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Triune Biblical University in Brooklyn, New York, the United States of America.

Governors

Governors of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Rivers State, Nyesom Wike; and Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, all received honorary doctorate degrees from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State in December.

The news was shared by the Governor of Lagos State, Sanwo-Olu, where he congratulated his colleagues for the achievement.
PUNCH

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Davido Thrills In Toronto, Brooklyn As US Tour Heats Up

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…Singer finalises white wedding plans with Chioma

Afrobeats megastar Davido is riding high on a wave of sold-out shows and personal milestones, as his ongoing US tour continues to pull massive crowds—even while he quietly puts final touches to his much-anticipated white wedding ceremony with Chioma Rowland.

Fresh off his exhilarating concert in Toronto, Canada, the “Unavailable” crooner brought his signature energy to Brooklyn, New York, where fans filled the venue to capacity, dancing and singing along to every beat.

Videos from the night show ecstatic crowds chanting his name, waving flags, and cheering him on as he delivered hit after hit with unrelenting stamina.

Despite the demands of touring across North America, Davido is reportedly making time to finalise arrangements for his white wedding in the US, an event that has been kept largely under wraps but is said to be exclusive and high-profile.

Sources close to the DMW boss say the ceremony will be held later this year, with only selected friends and family on the guest list.

Davido and Chioma had their traditional wedding in Lagos in 2023, following a difficult period that tested their bond. Their upcoming white wedding is seen not only as a celebration of enduring love but also a moment of quiet victory for a couple that has weathered intense public scrutiny and personal tragedy.

Amidst the tour and wedding preparations, Davido recently surprised his longtime aide Israel DMW with a luxury Rolex wristwatch during his US stopover. The gesture, which fans quickly picked up on, came as a signal of forgiveness and restored friendship after a highly publicized falling-out between the two.

Israel, clearly moved by the gift, took to social media to show off the designer timepiece, calling Davido a “king with a good heart.” It was a moment that resonated with fans who have long admired the singer’s deep sense of loyalty to his inner circle, even after conflicts arise.

The lavish gift and the ongoing reconciliation with Israel also reflect a new, more reflective Davido—one who is focused not only on breaking records but also on healing relationships and cherishing those closest to him.

As the US tour continues, the singer has maintained his status as one of Africa’s biggest musical exports, commanding stages and drawing crowds with a global appeal few can match. His performances in Toronto and Brooklyn are just the latest entries in a long list of sold-out venues stretching across continents.

Still, Davido’s recent viral comments reminded fans that music isn’t his only source of wealth or power. In a clip shared online, he boldly stated: “Even if I stop music today, I’ve got billions of dollars waiting for me. My family has money that I haven’t even started touching yet.” The remark, made during a relaxed hangout with friends, sparked intense discussion online, with some applauding his confidence and others debating the tone.

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Reminisce Unveils Release Date For His Eight Album

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Award-winning Nigerian rapper Reminisce has announced that his highly anticipated 8th album will hit the shelves in September 2025. The hip-hop icon shared the news with his fans July 30, via a social media post, generating significant buzz among music enthusiasts.

This new project promises to be another milestone in Reminisce’s illustrious career, which has been marked by critically acclaimed albums such as “My Book of Rap Stories,” “Alaga Ibile,” and “El Hadj.” His previous works have not only resonated with fans but have also earned him a spot on the prestigious Billboard World Chart. Reminisce’s ability to blend hip-hop with traditional fuji and Afrobeats has endeared him to a wide audience, solidifying his position as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated rappers.

The upcoming album follows the success of his 2024 EP “Sui Generis,” which featured collaborations with notable artists like Vector, BadBoy Timz, and Bhadboi OML. This project showcased Reminisce’s versatility and creativity, further establishing his reputation as a trailblazer in the Nigerian music scene.

With his unique style and lyrical prowess, Reminisce continues to push the boundaries of Nigerian music. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release, anticipating another masterpiece that will further cement his legacy in the music industry. The September 2025 release date has set the stage for what promises to be a significant moment in Reminisce’s career, and music lovers are looking forward to experiencing the evolution of his artistry.

As Reminisce prepares to drop his 8th album, the anticipation is palpable. With a career spanning over a decade, Reminisce has consistently delivered hits that have topped charts and resonated with fans globally. His upcoming album is expected to be another testament to his artistry and dedication to his craft.

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Popular Nollywood Actress Dies

Published

2 days ago

August 2, 2025

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The news of her passing was confirmed by fellow actor Akinola ‘Segbowe’ Akano, who mourned her in a heartfelt Instagram post on Thursday.

He shared their last conversation and photos of the late actress, revealing that she had earlier said she was feeling better.

“Motola! Strange but I tried checking on you at the wee hours of that morning. You said you were FINE & BACK! This is a rude shock, Omotola! Journey well, sister. God be with your family,” he wrote.

Details about the cause of her death have not been made public.

Confirming her demise on his Instagram story, veteran actor Odunlade Adekola, under whose mentorship Odunsi trained wrote, “Jesus Christ. RIP Omotola.”

Also, Ashabi Simple, actress and mother of singer Portable’s child, expressed disbelief over Omotola Odunsi’s death, recalling how they recently met on a movie set and made plans for future collaborations.

“I’m shocked. You’re one of the best actors I’m rooting for. I saw you earlier this year when I was shooting Deputy and we promised to feature each other in our next project. But now, you laboured and didn’t wait to reap. I remember nights you chatted with me to give hope and advice. Most of your wishes didn’t even come true. GOD, we can’t question you. Death is deep,” she wrote.

After initially working as a credit officer at a state‑owned bank, Omotola resigned in 2019 to pursue acting full-time a decision driven by passion and supported by her family.

In 2018, she successfully auditioned for Odunlade Adekola Films Production, where she began her professional on‑set career under the mentorship of Nollywood veteran Odunlade Adekola .

She has featured prominently in several Yoruba films such as Ajanaku, Darkness, Ogo Oluwa, Dagogo, Ariran, Doctor Adunni, Folagbade, President Kuti, Amonata, Officer Adaeze, Ifedayo, Ayanmo Ire, and Lisabi: The Uprising.