•Tasks contractors on quality,speedy completion of projects
By Kehinde Erin
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has performed the groundbreaking ceremony of four additional projects at Kogi State University,Kabba.
The projects include the female hostel complex,the male hostel,the Senate Tower and the Faculty of Science building.
Governor Ododo is making significant strides in education, showcasing his dedication to creating an ideal learning environment for students across Kogi State. His initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to investing in education, paving the way for a brighter future for the state’s younger generation.
Speaking at the ceremony, representative of the governor and Commissioner for Education, Honourable Wemi Jones, tasked all construction companies handling the building projects at the institution to ensure quality and speedy completion of jobs awarded to them.
He also stressed the present administration’s readiness to support the university to excel as a center for enhancing education and manpower development.
The Governor emphasized that his administration expects nothing but exceptional and timely delivery of projects, while urging the contractors to take their tasks seriously and aim to finish ahead of schedule.
With numerous projects lined up for various tertiary institutions across the state, the Governor assured that excellent performance will lead to more opportunities with the State Government.
This is just as he further hinted at exciting developments on the horizon for the University.
On his part, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon Abanika Taiye reaffirmed government’s dedication to delivering top-notch infrastructure, highlighting the recent projects as a shining example of this commitment.
He expressed gratitude to the governor for his ongoing support and encouraged the contractors to prioritize quality and timely completion of their projects.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Kehinde Eniola, kicked off the ceremony with a heartfelt welcome address. He extended his deepest gratitude to Governor Alhaji Usman Ododo, former Governor ,Alhaji Yahaya Bello, and the commissioners for their unwavering support.
Professor Eniola also shed light on the significance of the university’s latest projects, including the construction of modern hostels, the Senate Tower, and the Faculty of Science building. These infrastructure developments he noted are poised to create a conducive learning environment, fostering academic excellence and innovation among students.
Also, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council,Professor Suleiman Sadiku, expressed gratitude to the immediate past and present governors, commissioners, and the vice chancellor for their unwavering support to the university. He particularly highlighted the crucial role of infrastructure development in boosting the university’s academic excellence, noting that it is essential for creating a conducive learning environment.
In a separate address, the University’s Director for Physical Planning, Dr. Suleiman Hassan highlighted the projects and the contractors responsible for each one. He emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality results on time, urging the contractors to strive for excellence in their work.
Contributing,the Obaro of Kabba, HRM, Oba (Dr) Solomon Owoniyi, expressed gratitude to former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello for his swift action in establishing the university. He also commended Governor Alhaji Usman Ododo for continuing the projects initiated by previous administrations.
He also emphasized the need for the university to partner with private investors to address housing challenges, acknowledging that the government alone cannot shoulder this responsibility.
The State Project Consultant,Engineer Suleiman Kabiru, issued a stern warning to contractors, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the agreed-upon design specifications and avoiding the use of substandard materials.
The handing over ceremony was a significant moment, marked by the Commissioners and the Obaro of Kabba symbolically presenting the project notes to the contractors. This poignant gesture took place in the presence of the Vice Chancellor and other esteemed dignitaries, underscoring the importance of the project and the collaborative spirit that will drive its success.