Kogi Poly Rector Lists Achievements as First Tenure Ends, Sets Agenda for Second Term »

the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, has outlined the achievements of his first tenure in a press briefing marking the end of his initial four-year term.

Speaking at the event held on February 11, 2025 at the Lokoja campus, Professor Usman expressed gratitude to the immediate past governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for appointing him in April 2020 and confirming his position in February 2021. He also acknowledged the current governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for renewing his appointment for another four-year term starting February 12, 2025.

Professor Usman outlined significant improvements across multiple areas of the institution. One of his administration’s key focuses was tackling insecurity, which previously plagued the institution. Measures such as the installation of CCTV cameras, the construction of a modern security building, recruitment of additional security personnel, and collaboration with law enforcement led to the prevention of 107 security threats.

On the academic front, the Rector emphasized the introduction of a 3R mission; “Repair, Reform, and Restore” which aimed at improving the Polytechnic’s academic and operational standards. His administration ensured full accreditation for 48 academic programs and institutional accreditation, while also launching 19 new programs, including Mechatronics Engineering and Fashion Design.

The Polytechnic also introduced electronic examination processing, a centralized results verification system, and stricter measures against examination misconduct and textbook extortion. Additionally, a School of Agricultural Technology was established at the Itakpe campus, with four accredited departments.

Infrastructure development was another major highlight, with the construction of new lecture halls, staff offices, laboratories, and a 200-seat lecture theatre. The Polytechnic also saw the renovation of its health center, student hostels, and other academic buildings.

Professor Ogbo’s administration promoted 689 staff members, recruited nearly 1,000 new employees, and approved study leaves with pay for 188 staff members, including 65 pursuing PhDs. The Polytechnic also facilitated TetFund support for academic development, amounting to over N816 million.

For students, major improvements included the provision of water storage tanks, a new ambulance for medical emergencies, and the completion of a long-abandoned Students’ Union building. Additionally, student elections were held regularly to encourage democratic leadership within the institution.

The Rector reiterated his administration’s strict stance against cultism, examination malpractice, and other unethical practices. He also noted the Polytechnic’s historic 4th Combined Convocation Ceremony, which graduated over 12,000 students from 2013 to 2023.

Further cementing its growth, Kogi State Polytechnic signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to support the launch of Aerospace and Mechatronics Engineering programs.

Expressing his commitment to furthering the Polytechnic’s progress in his second term, Professor Usman assured stakeholders that his leadership would continue prioritizing security, academic excellence, infrastructure, and staff welfare. He credited the successes of his first term to the collective support of the government, staff, students, and the press.

“As we commence the next phase of our restoration efforts, I enjoin us to continue to give our quotas selflessly so as to leave behind a legacy that history may be kind to us,” he concluded.