***Aims to Make Kogi Epicenter of Industrial Excellence
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strategic investments in education, describing it as the most potent tool for sustainable development. He promised to continue reforms aimed at enhancing quality, relevance, access, and sustainability in the state’s educational sector.
The Governor made the remarks at the 5th Combined Convocation Ceremonies for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions of Kogi State Polytechnic, held on Saturday in Lokoja.
Vision for Kogi as Industrial Hub
Represented by his Deputy, Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo, Gov. Ododo said his administration envisions Kogi as a producer of a highly skilled and competitive workforce for industries.
He stated, “We are determined to build this institution into a thriving incubator of ideas and innovation, a place where Kogi State can consistently produce a highly skilled and competitive workforce for industries within and beyond our borders.”
Gov. Ododo also emphasized the state government’s resolve to position Kogi as the epicenter of industrial excellence in Nigeria, aligning education with contemporary industry demands.
Commendation for Leadership
The Governor praised the outgoing Rector, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, for his prudent resource management, effective planning, and accountability, which informed his appointment as Vice Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba.
Prof. Usman, delivering his last convocation address as Rector, highlighted achievements in infrastructure, academics, staff and student welfare, and campus security. He revealed that 6,824 students were graduating, with 3,892 at National Diploma (ND) and 2,932 at Higher National Diploma (HND) levels. A total of 117 students graduated with distinctions—51 ND and 66 HND.
Governing Council Applauds Government Support
The Polytechnic’s Governing Council Chairman, Barr. Sanni Momoh Shaibu, commended Governor Ododo’s unwavering support, noting that it has contributed to academic excellence, innovation, and infrastructural development. He called for stronger collaboration with stakeholders, alumni, and private partners for sustained progress.
Ceremony Highlights
The event also featured the presentation of certificates and Fellowship Awards to Governor Ododo, the late Prince Abubakar Audu, and Dr. (Hajia) Habibat Oiza Tijani, marking the institution’s commitment to honoring contributions to education and public service.
