Buckingham university awards honorary doctorate to Folorunso Alakija

Nigerian businesswoman and philanthropist Folorunso Alakija has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom. The award was presented on Friday, 16 October 2026, at The Radcliffe Centre on the university campus, during its Africa Day celebration.

The ceremony was led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Cole, and drew university officials, students, alumni and members of Alakija's family. Her son, Dele Alakija, and her sister, Arinola Ogbara, were among those who travelled from Nigeria for the event.

According to the university, the honour recognises Alakija's record across business, philanthropy and national development. She has worked in banking, fashion, oil and gas, real estate and printing, and is known for mentoring and supporting women and girls in Nigeria.

What was said at the ceremony

Cole said Alakija reflects the values of achievement, service and leadership the university is marking in its 50th anniversary year. Professor Debarpita Bardhan-Correia, Dean of the Faculty of Business, Humanities and Social Sciences, said Alakija's habit of opening doors for other people is one of the clearest forms of leadership.

Professor Shalom Lloyd, who delivered the oration, praised her ability to connect different cultures and inspire others. Lloyd stressed the need to invest in young Africans, asking: "What better investment can we make than developing Africa's future leaders?"

Accepting the degree in the university's red doctoral gown, Alakija thanked God and the university's Council and Senate. She said receiving the honour on Africa Day meant a great deal to her.

Africa is a continent of immense potential, creativity and resilience and that achievement carries responsibility to serve others.

She urged students to chase their goals with passion, persistence and hard work, and to stay humble while aiming for excellence. She also told them not to undervalue what they can contribute.

After the ceremony, the university held a reception in her honour, where she met students and guests and offered advice.

Why it matters

For young Nigerians weighing up careers in business or public life, the message from Buckingham was simple: achievement should be shared. Alakija's story, from a banking career to building businesses across several sectors, is often cited as an example for women and girls looking to rise in fields where they are underrepresented.

The honorary doctorate adds to a long list of recognitions for her work. It also puts a Nigerian business figure at the centre of a UK university's Africa Day, at a time when ties between Nigeria and the UK in education and enterprise remain strong.