Nigerian Business Icon Honoured for Enterprise, Philanthropy and Leadership at Buckingham University Africa Day
The University of Buckingham, United Kingdom, has conferred an Honorary Doctorate on Apostle Folorunso Alakija, distinguished Nigerian business leader, philanthropist, author and minister, in recognition of her exceptional achievements in enterprise, philanthropy and nation-building.
The conferment took place on Friday, 16 October 2026, at The Radcliffe Centre, University of Buckingham, during a ceremony celebrating leadership, service and the transformative power of education. The ceremony was presided over by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Cole, who formally presented the honorary degree.
In recognising Apostle Alakija’s achievements, the Vice-Chancellor noted that she embodies the values of success, service and leadership represented by the University, which is marking its 50th anniversary.
Professor Debarpita Bardhan-Correia, Dean of the Faculty of Business, Humanities & Social Sciences, highlighted Alakija’s commitment to creating opportunities for others, describing this as one of the highest expressions of leadership. She said the occasion celebrated not only an extraordinary African woman but also the possibilities created when Africa and the United Kingdom work together through education, enterprise and leadership.
Delivering the oration, Professor Shalom Lloyd MBE commended Apostle Alakija’s ability to bridge cultures, unite people, transform organisations and inspire a brighter future. Emphasising the importance of investing in Africa’s next generation, she asked: “What better investment can we make than developing Africa’s future leaders?”
Accepting the honorary degree in the University’s distinguished red doctoral gown, Apostle Alakija expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His grace and thanked the University Council and Senate for the recognition.
She said she was particularly honoured to receive the distinction on Buckingham Africa Day. Speaking on Africa’s promise and the responsibility that accompanies achievement, she said: “Africa is a continent of immense potential, creativity and resilience and that achievement carries responsibility to serve others.”
Alakija encouraged students and young people to pursue their calling with passion, perseverance and diligence, urging them to work with humility and excellence and never underestimate the value of their contributions.
Her message reflected a defining principle of her life and work: that success is most meaningful when it creates opportunities, inspires others and contributes to the greater good.
With a career spanning banking, fashion, oil and gas, real estate, printing, philanthropy and enterprise development, Apostle Alakija has built a profile that extends beyond commercial success to encompass service, mentorship and opportunity creation.
Her journey continues to serve as an inspiration to women and girls in Nigeria, across Africa and beyond, demonstrating the possibilities that emerge when ambition is matched by resilience, purpose and a commitment to making a difference.
Following the ceremony, the University hosted a reception in her honour, attended by alumni, students and members of the University community. Apostle Alakija also engaged with students and guests seeking her advice and guidance, taking time to offer counsel and encouragement.
The occasion was attended by family members, including her son Mr Dele Alakija and her sister, Arinola Ogbara, friends, university representatives and well-wishers. Apostle Alakija expressed appreciation to the University and to the family members and friends who travelled from Nigeria to celebrate the milestone with her.
The honorary doctorate marks a significant moment in the recognition of a Nigerian woman whose achievements span multiple sectors and whose influence continues to encourage a new generation to pursue excellence, build boldly and leverage your achievements to uplift others.