National Institute of Credit Administration (NICA), chartered Members Compliance Note
To: All Fellows, Members, Associates and Stakeholders of NICA
Background
The Federal Government, via the Federal Ministry of Education, has banned the use of the “Dr” prefix by recipients of honorary degrees in official, academic, and professional settings effective May 6, 2026. Misrepresentation of honorary degrees as earned academic credentials will now be treated as academic fraud.
NICA fully aligns with this directive to uphold the integrity of professional and academic titles in Nigeria.
NICA’s Position
As the statutory regulator of the credit management profession in Nigeria under the NICA Act No 26 of 2022, NICA emphasizes that professional credibility in credit administration management is built on licensed qualifications, experience, and ethical practice—not on honorary prefixes.
Rather than adopt the honorary “Dr” prefix, members are encouraged to use NICA’s professional and industry-recognized titles, which confer greater credibility within the national credit economy management and financial services sector.
Approved Professional Titles for Use
NICA members may use the following titles where applicable, subject to NICA’s award and membership regulations:
- Fellow,National Institute of Credit Administration (FICA)
- Honorary Fellow, National Institute of Credit Administration (HFICA)
- Member, National Institute of Credit Administration (MICA)
- AssociatesNational Institute of Credit Administration (AICA)
- NICA Eminent Persons Group (MEPG) – For distinguished industry leaders inducted into NICA’s Eminent Persons Group in recognition of their contribution to the credit economy.
These designations reflect earned professional standing, regulatory recognition, and industry relevance.
Compliance Requirement
All members are directed to:
1. Update email signatures, business cards, LinkedIn, and other professional profiles to reflect approved NICA titles only.
2. Cease the use of “Dr” where it derives solely from an honorary degree award.
3. Refer to the NICA Secretariat for verification and correct use of professional designations.
Non-compliance may result in disciplinary review under the NICA Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.
Conclusion
NICA’s “Eminent Persons Group” and “Honorary Fellow” designations are conferred based on contribution to the credit management profession and the Nigerian economy. They carry greater professional weight within the credit ecosystem than generic honorary prefixes.
For any inquiries, send an email to: registrar@icanigeria.net, Copy ceo@icanigeria.net
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