Nigeria’s former Minister of Niger Delta, Peter Godsday Orubebe, and Brig. Gen. Paul Boroh (Rtd), a former Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, have both been awarded Doctoral Degrees in Public Governance and Leadership from University of Abuja.
The duo achieved the significant academic milestone after successfully defending their theses on June 27, 2025, at the Abuja Leadership Centre (ALC), a TETFUND Centre of Excellence in Leadership and Public Governance.
The Director of the Centre, Prof. Philip Dahida, described the event as historic, noting that Orubebe and Boroh are the first individuals to earn doctorate degrees since the establishment of ALC.
Dahida commended all the postgraduate students who defended their theses and dissertation, and assured attendees of the Centre’s commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards while promoting leadership development and good governance in Nigeria through knowledge.
In response, Orubebe and Boroh expressed their dedication to applying the knowledge they have gained to benefit society by educating current leaders and followers about governance and leadership complexities. They aspire to contribute to the vision of a better and more effective Nigeria.
Both Orubebe and Boroh also declared their readiness to accept political appointments if called upon by any government, emphasizing their willingness to leverage their experiences and the new knowledge acquired during their doctoral studies to improve Nigerian society.
Orubebe explained his motivation for pursuing further academic achievements: “During my time in public service, from being a councillor to the chairman of a local government area, and Minister of Nigeria Delta, I observed many gaps. I felt compelled to contribute to the knowledge that would help leaders in Nigeria understand their roles in relation to their followers so that we can achieve the Nigeria of our dreams.
“I believe that my experiences can add value and guide leaders in making Nigeria great. It’s crucial that we elevate Nigeria’s status. I’m still actively in politics, and I am ready to step into any role that any government may require of me, utilizing my experience effectively,” Orubebe stated.
Similarly, Brig. Gen. Boroh (Rtd) explained that his academic pursuit was motivated by his concerns about gaps in democracy and security, which directly impact the quality of leadership and governance in the country. He expressed his commitment to human capacity and infrastructural development.
“This pursuit of knowledge started even during my military career. After serving in the military, I was called back to public office, where I worked to ensure peace and stability in the Niger Delta region.
“My concerns about the gaps in democracy and security led me to choose the topic on public governance and security for my thesis. I am pleased to have thoroughly examined the subject. I plan to share the knowledge I have gained by engaging in teaching at various levels of governance, including state, and local government levels.”
When asked if he plans to return to public office, Boroh said, “I am open to serving. I was trained by the federal government of Nigeria and I am ready to take on any assignment, anywhere. I am committed to serving the Federal Republic of Nigeria whenever called upon,” Boroh declared.
On the same day, Benjamin Pever was awarded a Master’s Degree (M.Sc) in Public Governance and Leadership after successfully defending his dissertation.