Yale University honors Finance Minister for 'tackling corruption'

Nigeria's Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has been awarded an honorary Doctorate of Human Letters by Yale University, United States.

According to the citation read at the presentation, the award was given in recognition of her role in Nigeria, the continent and the world, including her economic reforms and  fight against corruption.

"As Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Economic Development and Minister of Finance, you have tackled corruption, created a vision and path to long-term economic stability, and worked to build a culture of transparency," the university said.

"At the World Bank, you made food security a priority and provided policy advice and capital for the world’s poorest countries.

"With wisdom, a fierce dedication to doing what is right, and unflagging energy, you have transformed the economic landscape of your nation. We are proud to name you Doctor of Humane Letters”.

African singer, Angelique Kidjo, was also awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music.