Olu Samuel,Lokoja

The governing council and management of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, have named the institution’s Library complex after a former Rector, Late Prof. Matthew Idowu Ajibero.

The Polytechnic Rector, Prof. Salisu Usman, while unveiling the newly named library complex at Lokoja campus on Tuesday, said the gesture was a unanimous decision of the polytechnic governing council.

He eulogised the late Ajibero for his remarkable legacies and indelible footprints that had led to the development, progress and stability of the institution.

“During his time as Kogi Poly Rector, he established the department of library and information science.

“This library complex we are naming after him today, was initiated and built by him as well as lots of infrastructures in the Lokoja and Itakpe campuses of this institution.

“Prof Ajibero, though unassuming, was a great man. He was a highly dedicated and committed administrator,” Usman said.

Usman noted that his path first crossed with Prof Ajibero’s way back in Bayero University Kano (BUK) when the former Rector was head of library and information science department.

He added that their paths crossed again at University of Ilorin while working with the then Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shamsudeen Amali, the Late Ajibero was the university Librarian.

He added that Ajibero also gave him strong recommendation as a referee to then Kogi State University Anyigba, now Prince Abubakar Audu University.

He disclosed that the governing council has also penciled down some structures to be named after two other former rectors of the polytechnic.

The rector also inaugurated the newly elected executives of both the Students’ Union Government (SUG) and National Association of Kogi State Students (NAKOSS) of the institution

Usman commended the electoral committee for the smooth process, having heeded to his warning against imposition and external influence.

The rector assured the students of of his commitment to their welfare, and advised the new excos to be transparent, accountable and sensitive to issues on the campus

He commended the immediate past SUG President and his exco for their cooperation and support in ensuring peace and progress on the campus.

Usman encouraged the new SUG President and exco to work towards leaving an enduring legacies during their own tenure.

He advised against being used by mischief makers within and outside the institution, urging the students and new executives to be vigilant so as not to be misled.

The rector also encouraged the excos to always be sensitive and put their ears on ground to know everything that is going on in the campus so as to give the management first hand information.

The rector assured the students of the management’s commitment to be fair, transparent and prioritize their rights and security on campus.

Miss Janet Enimokanyi Oluwadamilola emerged as SUG President while Abubakar Isah Sheriff emerged the NAKOSS President for the 2024/2025 academic session.