By Matthias Ogbagah

DELTA – The University of Usmanu Danfodiyo, Sokoto, has conferred an Honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), on Saturday, September 6, 2025, during the 50th anniversary and 42nd convocation ceremony of the university.

The prestigious award, presented by the University’s Governing Council, recognizes General Yahaya’s exceptional strategic leadership, intellectual acumen, and transformative contributions to Nigeria’s security and defense landscape during a critical period.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Bashiru Garba, lauded General Yahaya as an exemplary Nigerian whose tenure as COAS significantly strengthened the Nigerian Army.

“The University is immensely proud to honor a distinguished leader whose enduring legacy in fostering a resilient military and advancing national security is unparalleled,” Professor Garba stated.

General Yahaya’s leadership was pivotal in navigating Nigeria through challenging times. His tenure saw the elimination of the notorious Boko Haram commander Abubakar Shekau, the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections, and significant victories in degrading Boko Haram, ISWAP, and banditry in the North East and North West regions, achieving a technical defeat of these threats among others.

A grand reception was held to celebrate the distinguished awardee, attended by notable figures, including former COAS Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Rtd), the Secretary to the Sokoto State Government, Alhaji Muhammad Bello Sifawa, representatives of the Sokoto State Government, members of the Nigerian Defence Academy 37th Regular Course, senior military officers (both serving and retired), members of the Sifawa Development Forum, family, and well-wishers.

The event featured lunch, heartfelt goodwill messages from the Sifawa Development Community and NDA 37 Regular Course, presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs to commemorate the occasion.