By Peter Omopo
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has described education as the most reliable pathway to sustainable development, stressing that his administration remains committed to strengthening educational institutions across the state.
The governor made the statement on Saturday at the 5th Combined Convocation Ceremony of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, where he highlighted the role of education in driving personal growth, institutional relevance and long-term socio-economic progress.
According to Ododo, his administration’s belief in education as a catalyst for development has informed several targeted interventions at the polytechnic, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, security, staff welfare and student support.
He disclosed that solar-powered streetlights have been installed across the campus to improve visibility and safety, while the Itakpe Campus has been fully fenced to prevent encroachment and safeguard lives and property. To further enhance campus security, the governor said Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras have been installed at strategic locations within the institution.
“These interventions reinforce our zero-tolerance stance on criminality and our commitment to preserving a serene and conducive academic environment,” Ododo said.
The governor also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for policies in economic reform, infrastructure development and education funding, which he said are already yielding positive results for states, including Kogi.
“Kogi State has benefitted immensely from these far-reaching interventions, and we remain deeply appreciative of the President’s enduring commitment to national progress and renewal,” he added.
Ododo noted that the convocation ceremony provided an opportunity to celebrate academic excellence, institutional growth and visionary leadership, while also reflecting on the steady progress of the polytechnic as a key pillar of technical education and human capital development in the state.
He congratulated the Governing Council, Academic Board, management, staff and students of the institution for sustaining its academic standards. Recalling the 4th Combined Convocation Ceremony held two years earlier, the governor said concerns raised at the time about the backlog of graduating sets had since been addressed.
The governor also congratulated the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 graduands on the successful completion of their National Diploma and Higher National Diploma programmes, commending their perseverance and dedication.
“Your discipline and determination have culminated in this proud moment. I also commend your parents and guardians for their sacrifices and appreciate the polytechnic for equipping you with skills and competencies needed to thrive in a competitive world,” he said.
Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, was established in 1992 by the late former governor of the state, Prince Abubakar Audu, to serve as a foundation for technical education, skills acquisition and industrial development.
