The prestigious G D Goenka University in India has honoured Gov Nasir Igris with the Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education, leadership, and social development.
This was disclosed by Yahaya SarkiSpecial Adviser (SA) on Media and Publicity to Kebbi State Governor on 3/7/2025, saying a special convocation ceremony, held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the university campus, witnessed the official presentation of the doctorate degree to Governor Idris, who was described as a visionary leader, statesman, and passionate advocate of education and social justice.
According to the citation presented at the event, G D Goenka University acknowledged the Governor’s unceasing dedication to public service, transformational leadership in Kebbi State, and his enduring legacy as a reformer in the education and labour sectors of Nigeria.
Governor Idris, born on August 6, 1965, began his career as a teacher and rose through the ranks of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), where he served as Chairman in Kebbi State and later as National Treasurer. In 2018, he was elected President of the NUT and concurrently served as Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), where he passionately championed the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers and educators.
In May 2022, he emerged as the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was elected Governor of Kebbi State in the 2023 general elections. Since ascension to power, his administration has brought about significant developments across key sectors including education, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, civil service welfare, economic growth, energy, digital economy, and rural development.
The university particularly highlighted the people-oriented governance style of Comrade Idris, commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and his efforts to promote religious harmony, security, and cultural preservation in Kebbi State.
The honorary degree represents a global acknowledgment of Governor Idris’ impact beyond Nigeria, as a symbol of progressive governance, unity, and hope.
The Governor, in his remarks, expressed deep appreciation to G D Goenka University for the honour, reaffirming his commitment to the service of Kebbi people and humanity with renewed zeal and purpose.
In line with the policy thrust of incumbent administration, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Hon. Shafiu Zauro, revealed that 69 graduates from Kalinga University and 27 from GD Goenka University, all indigenes of Kebbi State, have been granted automatic employment by the State Government, on the approval of Governor Nasir Idris.
In addition, the government has paid for their flight tickets back to Nigeria as well as provided them with financial assistance.
On the Governor’s entourage were
Hon. Bello Dallatun Kaoje, House of Representatives member representing Suru, Bagudo,
Hon.Faruq Nasarawa Jega, Majority leader, Kebbi State House of Assembly and Hon Abubakar Muhammad BK, Commissioner for Finance.
The rest were Hon Bala Muhammad, (Gagga), Commissioner for Transport and Renewable Energy, Hon Ibrahim Muhammad Sakaba, Commissioner, Digital Economy, Hon. Shafiu Abubakar Zauro, Special Adviser, Special Duties and Alhaji Ibrahim Bagudu, businessman and politician.
