Salem University in Lokoja, Kogi State, is set to celebrate academic excellence and legal distinction by conferring honorary doctorate degrees on two of Nigeria’s foremost legal personalities — Hon. Justice Stephen Jonah Adah of the Supreme Court and Dr. Ogwu James Onoja, SAN — during its upcoming 7th convocation ceremony.
The university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Alewo Johnson Akubo, disclosed that the appointments were approved by the governing council following a rigorous and transparent selection process. Both honourees were recognized for their “impeccable, unblemished, God-fearing, and modest contributions” to the legal profession, national jurisprudence, and community development.
Professor Akubo highlighted that the honorary degrees celebrate qualities of integrity, service, and leadership that resonate deeply with Salem University’s mission to nurture spiritually grounded, intellectually sound, and socially responsible leaders.
Justice Stephen Adah, esteemed for his landmark rulings and steadfast dedication to justice, exemplifies the legal legacy Salem University aims to uphold and inspire in its students. Dr. Ogwu Onoja, SAN, has earned wide acclaim for his outstanding contributions to legal education, mentorship, philanthropy, and national development.
The Vice Chancellor praised both men as exemplars of humility, competence, and compassionate leadership.
As Salem University prepares for the grand event, its Lokoja campus is adorned festively, anticipating an influx of visitors from across Nigeria and beyond. The convocation will see over 200 graduates awarded degrees across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes — including Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s degrees — celebrating academic achievement across diverse fields.
Adding to the ceremony’s significance, the Founding Chancellor, Archbishop Sam Amaga, will personally confer the honorary degrees and bless the graduating class. Professor Akubo described the Archbishop’s presence as “a divine gift and a moment of historic importance” that underscores the university’s foundation on spiritual excellence and scholarly pursuit.
The convocation festivities will include keynote lectures, thanksgiving services, and networking events that promote scholarship, innovation, and faith-based leadership in education.
With the distinguished honourees and vibrant programme, Salem University’s 2025 convocation promises to be a landmark occasion, reaffirming its role as a leader in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
