The Federal Government has expressed concern over repeated errors in the naming and titling of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by some media outlets and groups. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, issued a statement on Friday, 8 May 2026, clarifying the correct form of address for the president. The statement followed a report published on Wednesday, 7 May 2026, by a national newspaper that incorrectly referred to President Tinubu's name and title. Akume, through his media adviser Yomi Odunuga, urged the public and media organisations to verify official titles before publication.
The SGF emphasized that such mistakes could be avoided if information were confirmed through official government communication channels. These include the SGF's verified social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and X, as well as the office's official email address. Akume stressed the importance of sourcing accurate information from reliable government platforms to prevent avoidable errors and embarrassment for media outlets. The statement, reported by Punch newspaper, called for greater diligence in referencing government officials.
In a separate announcement, the Federal Government confirmed a ban on the use of the title 'Dr.' by holders of honorary degrees. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made the declaration during a press conference at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Alausa explained that the move is aimed at curbing the illegal awarding of honorary degrees, particularly when motivated by political or financial interests. The restriction applies immediately and affects all individuals who use the title based on honorary doctorates.
Senator George Akume condemns media errors in naming President Tinubu while his office simultaneously issues a corrective statement containing the president's full title. The incident reveals a gap between official expectations and public dissemination of presidential information. Dr. Tunji Alausa's ban on honorary 'Dr.' titles applies to individuals who may include those previously referenced in media reports alongside political figures. This creates a direct link between how titles are used and how they are now regulated.
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