Ex-NUC acting ES Maiyaki receives honorary doctorate from Lincoln University Malaysia
Chris Maiyaki, former acting executive secretary of Nigeria’s National Universities Commission (NUC), has been awarded an honorary doctorate degree in management by Lincoln University, Malaysia.
The degree was conferred on Monday in Kuala Lumpur during the institution’s convocation ceremony, in recognition of Maiyaki’s contributions to higher education development, policy innovation, and international academic collaboration.
The ceremony attracted academics, policymakers, and dignitaries, alongside a large Nigerian delegation, particularly from Gombe state, where Lincoln University recently established a branch campus.
Maiyaki described the honour as humbling and symbolic, noting its significance coming from an institution renowned for innovation and leadership in the global higher education space.
He traced Lincoln University’s journey from its founding as Lincoln College in 2002, its elevation to a university college in 2011, and its emergence as a major player in transnational education (TNE).
Maiyaki recalled that the Nigerian government and the NUC formally approved the establishment of Lincoln University’s Gombe campus in 2025, describing it as Nigeria’s first practical transnational education experiment.
“It is with pride and deep fulfilment that we are here as a huge contingent from Nigeria, and Gombe state in particular, to celebrate Lincoln University Gombe campus,” he said,
“The story of Lincoln and Gombe has already begun, and from what we have seen, the future looks excellent.”
According to him, the university has gained national attention within one year of operations for advancing higher education through digital technology, innovative curricula, research, and co-creation.
Maiyaki said the honorary degree transcends personal recognition, describing it as a symbol of collective commitment to the internationalisation of higher education as a pathway to access, equity, and national development.
He added that the honour comes at a time when global stakeholders are re-examining the mission and purpose of university education.
“I accept this honour on behalf of my colleagues at the National Universities Commission, policymakers, and all stakeholders who continue to champion innovative ideas in education,” he said.
Maiyaki pledged to continue advocating policies that strengthen higher education in Nigeria and beyond, stressing that education remains the most transformative investment any nation can make.
He dedicated the award to graduating students of Lincoln University, commending their confidence in transnational education and urging institutions to intensify efforts toward equitable, digital-driven learning.
He also expressed optimism that the Gombe campus would produce not just graduates but global citizens and transformational leaders, pledging to champion partnerships and innovation in his role as an honorary graduand of the university.
