Emmanuel lkpeama
The Governing Council and Management of Federal College of Education, Okene have paid a thank-you visit to Ahmed Usman Ododo at the Government House in Lokoja, seeking enhanced collaboration and support for critical infrastructure development.
During the visit, the council commended the administration of the governor for its strides in education and appealed for additional assistance to address key institutional needs.
The delegation, led by the Provost, Dr. Ibrahim Ismaila Mosima, expressed appreciation to the governor for his contributions to the growth of the college and his broader commitment to educational development in Kogi State.
Addressing the delegation, Governor Ododo praised the institution’s leadership and performance, noting that the achievements recorded by the management had made it easier for government and stakeholders to extend support to the college.
He urged the management to sustain the momentum by promoting inclusiveness, teamwork, and maintaining an open-door policy that encourages collaboration among staff.
“The school belongs to all of us. You must continue to work together, accommodate everyone, and give your staff a sense of belonging. Your success is collective,” the governor stated.
Governor Ododo also apologised for the earlier delay in granting the audience, noting that the visit had become even more significant in view of the progress recorded by the institution.
He reiterated his administration’s readiness to partner with the college, stressing that federal and state institutions serve the same population and must collaborate to improve educational outcomes.
“Our children attend this school. So, we’re ready to collaborate and ensure the institution continues to deliver quality teacher education,” he added.
The governor assured the delegation that their requests would receive careful consideration, revealing plans to engage relevant federal authorities, including the Minister of Education, to address critical needs such as improved power supply through a dedicated transmission line.
He further disclosed that the state government would consider providing buses and agricultural equipment, including tractors, to strengthen vocational and agricultural training, while discussions on tax relief for staff would require consultations with experts.
On infrastructure, Governor Ododo pledged support for securing intervention funds for projects such as a mini stadium, perimeter fencing, and other sports facilities, noting the importance of adequate preparation for hosting national competitions.
Earlier, the Provost, Dr. Mosima, commended the governor’s leadership style, describing him as humble, accessible, and committed to the welfare of the people.
He highlighted notable achievements of the administration, including improved road networks, healthcare facilities, rural electrification, educational infrastructure, and prompt payment of salaries and pensions.
Dr. Mosima also disclosed that the institution, established in 1974, is among the few colleges recently granted dual-mandate status to run both Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and degree programmes, with approval to offer 21 courses.
He further noted that the college had been selected to host the Nigeria Colleges of Education Games Association, a development that requires significant investment in sports infrastructure.
The provost therefore appealed to the governor to help fast-track Tertiary Education Trust Fund support for the construction of a mini stadium, provision of sports equipment, and other critical facilities needed for the successful hosting of the games.
Other requests presented to the governor included a dedicated 33KVA power line, luxury buses for student transportation, tractors for agricultural training, tax relief for staff, and support from the National Sports Commission.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Governing Council, represented by Salomi Ohame, also commended Governor Ododo for what he described as “giant strides” in the education sector, noting that his policies have positioned Kogi State among leading states in quality education delivery.
The visit underscores growing collaboration between the Kogi State Government and federal institutions in advancing educational development and improving learning outcomes across the state.