Governor Ododo Inaugurates Governing Councils of CUSTECH, KSU »

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has officially inaugurated the Governing Councils of Kogi State University, Kabba and Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara.

The ceremony, held at the Government House in Lokoja on Monday, marked a significant step towards enhancing the educational landscape in the state.

In his address, Governor Ododo, who was represented by Secretary to the Government of the State, Dr. Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, emphasized the critical role that higher education plays in the socio-economic development of Kogi State, stressing that the immediate past governor of the state, Yahaya Bello who established the two institutions within the space of four years did so to bridge the gap that existed. She added that Bello laid a solid foundation for educational advancement upon which Governor Usman Ododo is consolidating.

She highlighted the importance of the councils in steering the institutions towards achieving academic excellence and producing graduates who can contribute meaningfully to the society.

“The inauguration of these Governing Councils is a pivotal moment in our quest to provide quality education for our youths. We are committed to equipping our universities with the necessary resources and leadership to foster innovation and academic rigor,” Governor Ododo stated.

The Governing Council for Confluence University of Science and Technology is chaired by Professor Olu Obafemi, a distinguished academic with extensive experience in university administration. Other members include Professor Olusegun Adeyemi, Professor Abubakar Salifu A; Professor, Abdulkareem S. Ahmed.

Similarly, the Kogi State University, Kabba’s Governing Council is chaired by Professor Suleiman Sadiku. The council has Dr. Aisha Shakur, Professor, Y.K.E Ibrahim and sir Johnson Jimoh as members.

Other members who weren’t present due to unavailable reasons will be inaugurated at a later date.

Earlier in his opening address, the state Commissioner for Education, Hon Wemi Jones, said the event is a requirement by the National University Commission for the establishment of the universities, stating that the government of Alhaji Usman Ododo is committed to doing the right things to sustainable development.

Jones noted that proper planing and funding which was initiated by the immediate past administration and being consolidated upon by the current administration has led to the establishment of both CUSTECH and KSU, which are now addressing the admission and education needs of the people of Kogi State and beyond.

He said the purpose of setting up the board is to help in realizing the state government’s dream of making the institutions to be counted among the best in Nigeria.

Speaking on behalf of other members, the Pro-Chancelor and Chairman, Governing Council of CUSTECH, Professor Olu Obafemi, expressed their gratitude for the trust placed in them and pledged to work diligently to meet the objectives set out by the state government. Professor Obafemi outlined their plans to enhance infrastructure, improve research facilities, and foster partnerships with local and international institutions.

Speaking to our correspondent after the event, the Vice Chancellor of KSU, Kabba, expressed delight over the inauguration of the council, adding that it’ll help accelerated policy formulation and implementations that’ll ensure speedy development of the institution.

The newly inaugurated councils are expected to provide strategic direction, ensure proper governance, and oversee the overall administration of the universities. Their responsibilities include setting policies, monitoring the implementation of academic programs, and ensuring financial prudence.