California Varsity Honors Usman Alfa with Doctorate Degree
Abuja, Nigeria — August 2, 2025
The National Merit Award House, Maitama, glittered with elegance and national pride today as history unfolded in the Federal Capital Territory. Hon. Usman Alfa, a distinguished statesman and humanitarian, was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Policy and Administration by the renowned British American Open University, California. The landmark event, steeped in grandeur and cultural dignity, drew a constellation of dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, transforming the day into a resounding celebration of vision, service, and global recognition.
A Ceremony of Grandeur and Prestige
The grand hall, richly adorned with cultural elegance and resplendent national symbols, radiated an air of dignity and pride as it hosted a gathering of exceptional caliber. In attendance were eminent diplomats, captains of industry, revered royal fathers, distinguished academics, spiritual leaders, and political figures, all united to witness the historic honor. Presiding over the august ceremony were the esteemed Chancellor of the University, Prof. Paul Godwin, and the erudite Vice President, Prof. Walter Terry, who with solemn grace and academic authority, led the conferment on behalf of the prestigious institution.
Also gracing the ceremony as Fathers of the Day were two towering figures whose presence elevated the occasion beyond measure — Apostle Joshua Iginla, the revered General Overseer of Champions Royal Assembly, whose spiritual insight has touched lives across continents, and His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’Ad Abubakar III, the distinguished Sultan of Sokoto, custodian of tradition and symbol of national unity. Their presence bestowed both profound spiritual authority and deep cultural significance on the event, underscoring the magnitude of the historic conferment.
Words of Commendation
In his eloquent citation, Prof. Paul Godwin extolled Hon. Usman Alfa as “a man of vision, integrity, and unrelenting service, whose noble contributions to humanity have etched indelible marks across communities and generations.” He emphasized that the conferral of the degree was a recognition of Alfa’s steadfast devotion to leadership, philanthropy, and youth empowerment, virtues that have distinguished him on both national and global stages.
Adding his voice, Prof. Walter Terry lauded Alfa’s extraordinary journey of impact, declaring, “This honor elevates him into the distinguished circle of global icons who stand as torchbearers of service to humanity. His works testify that Africa continues to raise leaders whose legacies defy borders and whose influence will endure for generations to come.”
Hon. Alfa’s Grateful Response
In a deeply moving acceptance speech, Hon. Usman Alfa expressed profound gratitude for the honor, his voice resonating with humility and conviction. “This recognition is not mine alone but belongs to every Nigerian who rises each day with the hope of making a difference. I dedicate this award to our resilient youth, the less privileged whose dreams remain valid, and to all who believe in the transformative power of service, integrity, and unwavering faith,” he declared, drawing heartfelt applause.
He went on to reaffirm his lifelong commitment to humanity, pledging to intensify efforts in championing social justice, quality education, accessible healthcare, and grassroots development. His stirring words ignited a standing ovation, with many in the audience visibly moved by the sincerity and depth of his resolve, marking the moment as one of the most defining highlights of the ceremony.
Spiritual and Cultural Blessings
Delivering his goodwill message, Apostle Joshua Iginla commended Alfa as “a vessel of God’s grace and a voice of hope in a time when true leadership is scarce.”
In a similar vein, Sultan Muhammad Sa’Ad Abubakar lauded the honoree for his humility and commitment to the unity of Nigeria. “Leaders like Usman Alfa are rare. He has demonstrated that service is not about position but about people,” the Sultan remarked.
A Historic Recognition
The honorary doctorate, officially a Doctor of Humane Letters, is among the highest recognitions conferred by the British American Open University. It celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to humanity and transformational leadership.
With this honor, Hon. Alfa joins a distinguished league of statesmen, diplomats, and global change-makers previously decorated by the institution.
Reactions and Significance
Political observers and community leaders at the event described the recognition as timely and well-deserved. A senior diplomat in attendance noted, “At a time when Nigeria needs role models, this honor is a beacon that integrity and service still hold value in leadership.”
The conferment of an honorary doctorate on Hon. Usman Alfa by the British American Open University, California, is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the value of integrity, vision, and service in leadership. The event at the National Merit Award House, Maitama, reaffirms the growing global recognition of Nigerians who have dedicated their lives to humanity and nation-building.
As the curtains fell on the historic ceremony, it became clear that Usman Alfa’s journey is far from over. With this international honor, he carries a renewed mandate — to continue inspiring, serving, and shaping the future of his community, Nigeria, and the world at large.
The event concluded with cultural displays, musical interludes, and heartfelt congratulations from colleagues, friends, and supporters, sealing the day as a milestone not only in Hon. Usman Alfa’s journey but also in the narrative of celebrating exemplary leadership in Nigeria.
