By Aisha Audu
The Kogi State Chapter of the National Open University of Nigeria Alumni Association, (NOUNAA), has solicited the support of the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, (FUL) Prof. Ibileye, in strengthening collaboration aimed at advancing shared interests.

The group made the call when it paid a familiarization visit to Federal University Lokoja’s fourth substantive Vice-Chancellor, Professor Solomon Gbenga Ibileye.
Speaking further, Kogi State Chairman of NOUNAA, Comrade Hafiz Ibrahim, outlined the association’s areas of concern and proposed partnership to include the rehabilitation of the long-abandoned projects at the NOUN Lokoja Centre, the furnishing of the Alumni office through member contributions.
The group also sought guidance on a proposed Alumni land project, and support for unemployed graduates as well as Alumni-owned businesses.
He further solicited support to enable the association participate in the 2026 NOUNAA National Congress and Elections in Abuja, just as it commended the Vice-Chancellor for appointing Mr. Adamu Tenimu, as his Personal Assistant on Community Engagement.
The NOUNAA delegation used the forum to also praise Professor Ibileye’s leadership style while describing his appointment as a clear case of a square peg in a square hole.
He noted that the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and institutional growth has placed the University on a path of sustainable progress.
In recognition of these strides, the association conferred on him an Award of Paragon of Education Reformist to encourage continued excellence in the education sector.
In his response, Professor Ibileye thanked the delegation for the familiarization visit and the award and assured them that all the issues raised were noted and promised prompt attention to them.
He also pledged continuous partnership and collaboration with the Alumni Association in the interest of all stakeholders.
Speaking at the close of the visit, Honourable Mohammed Awwal, Member of the National Advisory Council for the North Central Zone of NOUNAA, described Professor Ibileye as a man of outstanding character and determination.
He said the association has known the Vice-Chancellor for many years as someone who pursues any goal he sets his mind to until it is achieved, and pledged that the Alumni would do its best to move the association to the next level with his support.
The event ended on a warm note, with members describing it as a moment of pride for both the National Open University of Nigeria and the Federal University Lokoja.
