By Luka Retle Kumbet
A 400 Level Student of the Department of Journalism at the prestigious NTA Television College, Jos, Plateau State, Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi, has been awarded a Honourary Doctorate Degree by Triune Biblical University, New York, USA.
Our Correspondent reports that the award was conferred on her at a special convocation for the conferment of Honourary Doctorate Degree, Certificates and Awards held at the Presidential Hall of Tahir Guest Palace, Kano, North West Nigeria.
The Award, “Doctor of Community Development,” is in recognition of the recipient’s commitment to development of Zuru and Ruma Community in Kebbi State and Nigeria in general.
Born in 1977, Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi, is a Graduate of Computer Studies from Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto.
She also obtained a Diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Jos, Plateau State.
A Staff of NTA Kebbi, Birnin Kebbi for years, Bamaiyi was Kebbi State Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).
She is the founder of Women Rights Initiative (WORI) and Bamaiyi General Services as well as Chairperson Rukkuna Bamaiyi Foundation.
The Awardee, who hails from Ruma, Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State, told our Correspondent Luka Retle Kumbet, in an interview, that being physically challenged is not a barrier against any achievement.
“I give glory to God for what He is doing in my life.
“I call on women folks to always brace up to the challenge of life and never feel discouraged in the pursuit of their dreams.
“The secret is to be focused,” she said.
Bamaiyi disclosed that the late former Nigerian Minister of Information, Prof. Dora Akwuyili and the former Nigerian Minister of Finance, Prof. Okonjo Iweala are her role models and advised women to see their gender as a blessing from God.
An Honourary Doctorate is a high level Academic recognition granted by a University to a recipient without completion of the normal requirements for that Degree.
It can be given for a variety of reasons decided upon by the University.
The first awarded Honorary Doctorate on records was issued by Oxford University to Lionel Woodward in the 1470s.
