The University of Buckingham, United Kingdom, has conferred an honorary doctorate on Nigerian businesswoman, philanthropist and clergy, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, for her contributions to enterprise, philanthropy and nation-building, as well as her commitment to creating opportunities for future generations.
The conferment took place at The Radcliffe Centre, University of Buckingham, during the institution’s Africa Day celebrations, bringing together university officials, students, alumni, family members and well-wishers to celebrate her achievements.
The ceremony was presided over by the university’s vice-chancellor, Professor David Cole, who formally presented the honorary degree.
Cole said Alakija embodied the values of achievement, service and leadership upheld by the university, which is marking its 50th anniversary.
The Dean of the Faculty of Business, Humanities and Social Sciences, Professor Debarpita Bardhan-Correia, highlighted Alakija’s commitment to creating opportunities for others, describing it as one of the highest expressions of leadership.
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She said the occasion celebrated not only an accomplished African woman but also the opportunities created when Africa and the United Kingdom collaborate through education, enterprise and leadership.
Delivering the oration, Professor Shalom Lloyd MBE commended Alakija’s ability to bridge cultures, unite people, transform organisations and inspire a brighter future.
Emphasising the importance of investing in Africa’s next generation, Lloyd asked: “What better investment can we make than developing Africa’s future leaders?”
Accepting the honorary degree in the university’s red doctoral gown, Alakija expressed gratitude to Almighty God and thanked the University Council and Senate for the recognition.
She described the honour as particularly significant because it coincided with the university’s Africa Day celebrations.
Reflecting on Africa’s potential and the responsibility that accompanies achievement, she said: “Africa is a continent of immense potential, creativity and resilience, and that achievement carries responsibility to serve others.”
Alakija encouraged students and young people to pursue their aspirations with passion, perseverance and diligence, urging them to embrace humility, excellence and a commitment to making meaningful contributions to society.
She emphasised that success becomes more valuable when it creates opportunities for others, inspires future leaders and advances the common good.
Alakija’s career spans banking, fashion, oil and gas, real estate, printing, philanthropy and enterprise development, establishing her as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s business and philanthropic landscape.
Her journey continues to inspire women and girls in Nigeria and beyond, demonstrating the possibilities that emerge when ambition is matched with resilience, purpose and a commitment to service.
Following the ceremony, the university hosted a reception in her honour, providing an opportunity for further engagement with alumni, students and members of the university community.
Alakija also interacted with students and guests seeking her advice, offering counsel and encouragement.
She expressed appreciation to the university and to family members and friends who travelled from Nigeria to celebrate the milestone.
The honorary doctorate underscores the significance of recognising African leadership and enterprise while highlighting the role of education, philanthropy and cross-cultural collaboration in inspiring a new generation to pursue excellence and use their achievements to uplift others.
