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, marking a significant milestone in the state’s education sector.
The inauguration ceremony, which took place at the Government House in Lokoja on Monday 3rd June 2024, underscores the state government’s commitment to enhancing the educational landscape and fostering academic excellence in Kogi State.
At the event, Governor Ododo was represented by Secretary to the Government of the State, Dr. Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, who emphasized the pivotal role of higher education in driving socio-economic development. Governor Ododo highlighted the legacy of the immediate past governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in establishing the two institutions within a short period to bridge educational gaps in the state.
Speaking on the importance of the Governing Councils, Governor Ododo affirmed the government’s dedication to equipping universities with resources and leadership to promote innovation and academic excellence.
Professor Olu Obafemi, a distinguished academic, chairs the Governing Council of Confluence University of Science and Technology, alongside other eminent members like Professor Olusegun Adeyemi and Professor Abubakar Salifu A.; Professor Abdulkareem S. Ahmed. The Governing Council of Kogi State University, Kabba, is helmed by Professor Suleiman Sadiku and includes Dr. Aisha M. Sakol, Professor Y.K.E Ibrahim, and Sir Johnson Jimoh.
The Commissioner for Education, Hon Wemi Jones, reiterated the state government’s commitment to sustainable development through robust planning and funding, as initiated by the previous administration and maintained by the current one for the establishment of CUSTECH and KSU.
Speaking on behalf of the councils, Professor Olu Obafemi assured the government of its dedication to achieving the state’s educational objectives by enhancing infrastructure, research facilities, and partnerships with local and international institutions.
The Vice-Chancellor of KSU, Kabba, expressed enthusiasm for the new councils, anticipating accelerated policy formulation and implementation for the institutions’ rapid development.
The newly inaugurated councils are tasked with providing strategic guidance, ensuring effective governance, and supervising overall university administration. Their responsibilities include policy-making, program monitoring, and financial management to foster academic excellence in Kogi State.
The inauguration of the Governing Councils of Kogi State University, Kabba, and Confluence University of Science and Technology heralds a new era of educational advancement and innovation in Kogi State, underscoring the government’s commitment to quality higher education for the state’s youth.