By Abubakar Ohida
The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Professor Salihu Avidime, earlier today, paid a familiarization visit to the Maigari of Lokoja, HRH, Alh. Ibrahim Gambo Kabir, Makarfi the 4th, where he sought the monarch’s guidance and royal support towards the continued growth and development of the institution.
The traditional ruler, who warmly welcomed the Rector, described his appointment as well-deserved and a fitting choice.
He particularly commended the Governor of Kogi State, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, for entrusting the leadership of the Polytechnic to a scholar whose academic and administrative trajectory spans several parts of the country, noting that such cosmopolitan exposure would greatly benefit the institution.
Reflecting on the institution’s history, the Maigari recalled that the present site of the Polytechnic was originally established as a secondary school before metamorphosing into a Polytechnic following the creation of Kogi State in 1991.
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He emphasised the historical significance of the campus and the importance of Lokoja as host community to the institution, urging the Rector to continually carry the traditional institution and the people of Lokoja along in the affairs of the Polytechnic.
The royal father pledged his unwavering support for the new Rector, expressing confidence in his capacity as an innovative, empathetic, and God-fearing leader. He further advised him to lead with fairness and collaboration, encouraging a harmonious relationship with staff while fostering a spirit of collective responsibility within the institution.
In his remarks, Professor Salihu Avidime, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Ododo, for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment as Rector. He also acknowledged the enduring influence of the former Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello, in the development of the state and its institutions.
The Rector commended the Maigari for his wisdom and warm reception, noting his admiration for the monarch’s intelligence and statesmanship.
He assured the royal father that his administration would bring innovative ideas and purposeful leadership to bear, stressing that he would “not only hit the ground running but flying” in repositioning the Polytechnic for greater excellence.
Prof. Avidime, further acknowledged the strategic role of Lokoja as the host community, assuring that his administration would sustain a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the traditional institution and the people. He also solicited collaboration from the palace, particularly in the areas of security and community partnership, as part of broader efforts to take Kogi State Polytechnic to greater heights.
