Movie star Laide Bakare has reached a significant milestone in her professional journey as she officially received her Honorary Doctorate Degree in Arts & Humanities from the American University of Peace and Governance, USA. The accomplished actress and mother of three proudly announced her new academic title, marking another achievement in what has already been a remarkable year for her career.
The conferment ceremony, captured in a series of photographs shared on her social media platforms, represents a formal recognition of Bakare’s contributions to governance, leadership, and humanitarian service. The actress expressed profound gratitude to various stakeholders, including Ambassador Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, Chairman of the Supreme Council of American University of Peace and Governance, USA.
During her acceptance speech, Bakare dedicated the honor to her support system, encompassing her creator, friends, family, and global fan base. She particularly acknowledged Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke of Osun State, whom she referred to as her principal, father, and mentor, praising his commitment to the state’s development and his exemplary leadership in nation-building initiatives.
The doctorate conferment adds to what has been a transformative year for the actress. Earlier in February, Bakare was appointed as the Senior Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Entertainment, Art, Culture, and Tourism, marking her entry into the political sphere. This appointment demonstrated the government’s recognition of her potential contribution to the state’s cultural and entertainment sectors.
The combination of her political appointment and academic recognition reflects Bakare’s evolution from solely an entertainment figure to a more multifaceted public personality. Her transition into politics, coupled with this academic achievement, positions her uniquely within Nigeria’s entertainment and political landscape.
In her announcement of the doctorate conferment, Bakare emphasized the significance of the honor, noting that she can now officially be addressed as “Hon. (Dr.) Laide Bakare.” This new title represents not just personal achievement but also signals her growing influence in both the entertainment industry and public service sectors.
The actress’s journey from screen star to political appointee and now doctorate holder illustrates the increasing diversity of paths available to entertainment professionals in Nigeria. Her success story serves as an inspiration to others in the industry who might be considering similar multifaceted career trajectories.
The American University of Peace and Governance’s recognition of Bakare’s contributions through this honorary doctorate highlights the growing international acknowledgment of Nigerian entertainment industry professionals’ impact beyond their primary field. This recognition potentially opens doors for more collaborative opportunities between Nigeria’s entertainment sector and international institutions.
Bakare’s dual role as both an entertainer and public servant, now enhanced by her academic recognition, positions her as a bridge between the entertainment industry and governance structures. Her experience and new credentials could prove valuable in shaping policies that affect Nigeria’s creative industries while maintaining her connection to her entertainment roots.
The actress’s achievements this year, from her political appointment to her honorary doctorate, demonstrate the evolving nature of success in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As more performers seek to expand their influence beyond traditional entertainment roles, Bakare’s journey provides a template for combining artistic success with public service and academic recognition.
Looking ahead, Bakare’s new status as both a political appointee and doctorate holder suggests an expanding sphere of influence that could benefit both the entertainment industry and public service sector. Her unique position offers opportunities to contribute to policy development while maintaining her connection to the creative arts that launched her career.
