***As FIDA Commends His Leadership and Developmental Strides
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, has called on parents, educators, government, and religious leaders to be more vigilant in protecting children from the dangers associated with unregulated exposure to digital tools.
Speaking as Guest Speaker at the 2025 Nigeria Post/Margaret Ekpo Memorial Lecture and Awards held at the NUJ Press Centre in Lokoja, Prof. Usman delivered a paper themed “Children: Our Future, Our Responsibility.”
The Professor of Political Science, with a PhD in Political Economy and Development Studies, said emerging technologies are rapidly reshaping how children learn and interact socially. While digital tools offer immense opportunities, he warned they also present serious threats such as access to inappropriate content, cybercrime, and digital addiction.
“Creating safe and productive digital environments must be a shared responsibility. Parents, being the primary molders of children, must be empowered and informed to play their role effectively,” Prof. Usman emphasized.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the “Best Performed Rector in North Central Nigeria (2021–2024)” award to Prof. Usman, recognizing his transformative leadership at Kogi State Polytechnic.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has also commended the Rector for his visionary leadership and institutional reforms.
During a courtesy visit, Barr. Oluwakemi Omeiza Usman, Chairperson of FIDA in the state, described the organization as a global NGO present in over 75 countries and committed to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and children.
She explained that FIDA’s visit sought to build collaboration with the Polytechnic on key initiatives, particularly in addressing gender-based violence, promoting mentorship for girls, and advancing the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in resolving conflicts.
In response, Prof. Usman expressed gratitude for the visit and pledged support for FIDA’s mission, particularly in areas of justice, equity, and legal aid for the indigent. He also reaffirmed the relevance of ADR in peaceful dispute resolution and promised to collaborate on future FIDA-led programs.
