In a compelling address at the 5th Combined Convocation Ceremony of Kogi State Polytechnic in Lokoja, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of Kogi State and Nigeria at large. The governor said his administration views education not merely as an academic pursuit but as a practical and dependable pathway to sustainable development and societal advancement.
Speaking through Deputy Governor Joel Oyibo, Governor Ododo emphasised that investing in education has been central to his government’s agenda. He described the ceremony, which celebrated the graduating classes of the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions, as an opportunity to reflect on the progress of the polytechnic and the transformational role of learning in individual lives and community prosperity.
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A Strategic Investment in Human and Institutional Development
Governor Ododo highlighted that his administration’s belief in education is grounded in action. To create a safe and enabling environment for learning, the state government has embarked on several targeted interventions at the polytechnic. These include modernising campus infrastructure, upgrading security systems, and improving facilities for both staff and students.
Among the key enhancements are the installation of solar-powered streetlights to improve visibility and safety across the campus and the installation of Closed-Circuit Television cameras in strategic locations to strengthen security. The Itakpe Campus, part of the polytechnic’s network of facilities, was also fully fenced to curb encroachment and safeguard lives and property. These measures reflect the administration’s commitment to fostering a secure and peaceful academic atmosphere.
Governor Ododo pointed out that these improvements are driven by a zero-tolerance policy against criminality and a deep desire to ensure that students and faculty can focus on education without fear or distraction. The interventions underscore the government’s belief that a conducive learning environment is essential to unlocking the full potential of students and graduates who will contribute to the state’s broader development objectives.
Federal Support and Collaborative Leadership
In his remarks, Governor Ododo expressed sincere gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its support, especially under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that federal policies on economic reform, infrastructural expansion, and education funding are yielding tangible benefits for states like Kogi. According to the governor, these interventions have helped accelerate progress in key sectors, including education, and have reinforced Kogi State’s development agenda.
The governor observed that the partnership between state and federal authorities is vital to sustaining the growth of educational institutions and enhancing their contributions to national goals. He acknowledged the collaborative role of stakeholders, including the polytechnic’s governing council, academic board, management, and staff, for their steadfast dedication to academic excellence and institutional strength.
Celebrating Academic Achievement and Commitment
Governor Ododo’s address carried a strong message of encouragement for the graduands. He took the moment to congratulate the graduates of the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic years, recognising their hard work, resilience, and discipline in completing their National Diploma and Higher National Diploma programmes.
He reminded the audience of his personal connection to the polytechnic community, recalling that as Governor-Elect two years earlier, he had attended the previous convocation when concerns were raised about the accumulation of ten graduating sets. The noticeable reduction to two graduating sets this year, he said, demonstrated improved academic rhythm and a renewed focus on educational delivery.
Beyond celebration, Governor Ododo spoke directly to the role of education in preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of a competitive and evolving world. He thanked parents and guardians for their sacrifices and urged graduates to carry forward the skills and competencies they have acquired into their chosen careers.
Looking Ahead
Governor Ododo’s remarks at the convocation reflect a broader vision for Kogi State, one in which education plays a central role in building capable leaders, skilled professionals, and engaged citizens. His emphasis on quality instruction, safe learning environments, and collaborative governance signals an administration that understands the profound connection between education and sustainable development.
As Kogi State continues to prioritise education, the focus remains on harnessing learning as an instrument for economic growth, technological progress, and social transformation. The governor’s stance aligns with national efforts to strengthen educational systems and expand access, equipping young Nigerians with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to succeed.
In closing, Governor Ododo’s message resonated with pride and purpose. He reiterated that education remains the most reliable foundation for personal and collective advancement, reaffirming his government’s commitment to nurturing a generation that is knowledgeable, empowered, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development journey.
This extended focus on education sets a hopeful tone for Kogi State’s future, suggesting that the investments being made today are intended not only for immediate benefits but for long-term prosperity that touches every community and sector across the state.
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