Abah Benjamin Eleojo
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to education, describing it as the most enduring foundation for human capital development and sustainable societal progress.
He stated this at the 7th Combined Convocation Ceremony and 25th Anniversary of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, his first official convocation appearance as Visitor to the institution since assuming office.
Governor Ododo described the event as a moment for reflection, celebration and renewed dedication to academic excellence, stressing that nations are built not only by physical infrastructure but by enlightened, disciplined and innovative citizens.
According to him, education remains the most powerful tool for shaping the future of any society.
He paid tribute to the late founder of the university, Prince Abubakar Audu, whom he described as a visionary leader whose passion for education continues to influence generations of students.
He noted that the institution has witnessed remarkable growth in infrastructure, academic stability, research culture and program expansion.
A major highlight of the Governor’s address was the full reactivation and accreditation of the university’s MBBS program after 12 years of inactivity.
He said the state government has gone beyond accreditation by providing the necessary infrastructure, equipment and manpower to train world-class medical professionals, describing the development as a defining chapter in the history of the university.
Governor Ododo also reiterated his administration’s commitment to student welfare through sustained bursary schemes and support interventions, while noting improvements in internal road networks, campus security and collaboration among state-owned tertiary institutions.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor praised the Federal Government’s economic reforms and the strengthened role of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), which he said has significantly boosted infrastructure development, staff training and research at the university. He called for further strengthening of the fund to deepen its impact.
In recognition of his contributions to public service and governance, Governor Ododo was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration.
He dedicated the honour to the people of Kogi State and past leaders who contributed to the growth of the university.
Earlier, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Ibrahim Abdul Aguye, disclosed that the university has maintained 100 per cent accreditation of all academic programs for the past five years, alongside the introduction of new programs, faculty restructuring and improved campus security.
He commended the state government for reviving the MBBS programme and for its consistent support.
Professor Aguye also praised the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Marietu Ohunene Tenuche, for her transparent and people-centred leadership, noting improvements in staff welfare and institutional stability.
In her remarks, Professor Tenuche revealed that the university produced 26,160 first-degree graduates and 1,139 postgraduate graduates across five academic sessions, while the number of degree-awarding programs increased from 46 to 64 under her administration.
She attributed the institution’s stability to strong security measures, work ethics, and welfare policies.
As part of the convocation activities, Governor Ododo inspected and commissioned several projects on campus, including the Patrick Adaba Road, named after the late former Deputy Governor of Kogi State.
