Distinguished Service Award: The Journey So Far »

I knew Prof. Usman Ogbo II long before I ever met him.

Before our paths crossed physically, I had known him through social media. Little did I know then that Allah was quietly aligning our destinies.

My journey truly began with my repeated attempts to study Law. Despite meeting all the requirements, I was not admitted. Instead, I was offered other courses; none of which aligned with my passion. I rejected the first offer outright. The second placed me in Islamic Studies, where I progressed to 300 level before making yet another difficult but necessary decision: to start afresh through Direct Entry into Political Science.

When I finally arrived in the Department of Political Science, I carried a sense of confidence. I had already earned a Diploma in Law with a commendable grade, and I felt academically prepared. It was in one of his classes that another defining moment occurred.

I was assigned to present a group assignment on the Aba Women’s Riot of 1929, following an earlier episode where he had jokingly mocked my appearance as a “nuisance” on social media. Regardless, I delivered the presentation well but I had bushy hair. He awarded me 15 marks, while others received 20. His reason was firm and uncompromising: he would not grade bushy hair. That same day, I cut my hair to skin level. At first, he made light jokes about it, but in hindsight, that moment became a profound lesson in discipline, standards, and character.

Shortly before the completion of my service, he secured me a job. I could hardly believe it—state employment? It felt surreal. I was truly amazed. In a way only Allah can orchestrate, he employed me and deployed me to the Public Relations Directorate. There, he molded me and he continues to mold me till today. He is simply extraordinary.

After completing my probation, I was confirmed. I then began my MSc programme, and shortly after completing it (he cleared my external defense fee), he was appointed Vice-Chancellor. Now tell me—is this not the handiwork of God?

Throughout this journey, all I ever wished for him was success. I strongly believe he is a destined child, just as I believe I am. Since the day our paths crossed, Allah has consistently positioned him higher at every stage of my growth. I have said it repeatedly, and I mean it sincerely: I am willing to make myself uncomfortable for him, because his impact on my life is profound, and I would never want anything to hurt him.

My service at Kogi State Polytechnic was genuine and selfless. Whenever I hear “Kogi Poly,” I think of him. I stood firm everywhere, ensuring that no one defamed him or spoke ignorantly about him and his administration. I fed the public with verifiable information. No query. No extortion of any kind. I was just uncompromising.

I did all of this not for recognition, but out of conviction and absolute loyalty, and within this period, I had the privilege of facilitating the admission of over 300 UTME candidates from within and outside my immediate community, Igu, Koton Karfe (Kogi Local Government Area) into the institution.

While doing all these, I never knew I was doing so well. I never expected an award.

Yet, unknowingly, I was recommended. What humbled me even more was that the “Distinguished Service Award” was conferred within six (6) years of service. I will live to forever appreciate Prof Usman for what he has done and will continue to do in our lives.

This honor felt even deeper knowing that the award was presented by two Vice-Chancellors. It was a moment of humility, gratitude and deep reflection.

My dear Prof, I owe you three things: