By Ahundu Joseph Ahundu
In a historic event that has added yet another feather to his cap, Prof. Toyin Falola, The Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities and a distinguished Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, was on Saturday, 20th April 2024, conferred with a D.Litt. honorary doctorate by the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Sokoto State – Nigeria.
The recognition comes in acknowledgement of his outstanding intellectual achievements. This serves as a testimony to Falola’s dedication to scholarship, which has evidently left an indelible mark on the African education system. The recognition reflects the wider acknowledgement of his intellectual contributions globally.
Prof. Falola was awarded the title of Doctor of Letters (D.Litt. – Honoris Causa) during the grand finale of the 38th, 39th, 40th & 41st combined convocation ceremony of the university, held at the University Convocation Square, Main Campus.
Speaking before the conferment of the honour on Prof. Falola and others, the vice-chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Prof. Lawal Suleiman Bilbis FSAN, FNSBMB, FSESN, FAS, highlighted the contributions of the awardees. As he stated, the institution, since its establishment in 1975, has lived up to the expectations, evolving into a beacon of excellence in higher education, research, and community engagement.
On behalf of the honorees, Prof. Falola appreciated the management of the institution for counting him and his colleagues worthy and for bestowing the honours on them, pledging on behalf of the honourees that they would support the institution. He equally admonished the graduands to exhibit what they have learnt in the institution in their life endeavours.
Also awarded alongside Prof. Falola were His Royal Highness Alhaji Nasir Ado Bayero (Emir of Bichi) and Sheikh Mallam Mohammadu Bello Na-Mallam Boyi, respectively.
Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto is 49 years old. 4,288 graduates received various degrees and diplomas in the 38th, 39th, 40th & 41st combined Convocation Ceremony.