At a vibrant convocation ceremony held on Saturday, 7 February 2026, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, graduated a total of 6,824 students from its 2024/2025 and 2024/2025 academic sessions, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s academic calendar and signalling strengthened institutional stability under current leadership.
The event, held at the Polytechnic’s convocation arena, brought together graduands, families, academic leaders, government officials, and invited guests from across Nigeria. Students from various schools within the Polytechnic were conferred with National Diplomas (ND) and Higher National Diplomas (HND), marking the successful completion of their academic and technical training.
Of the total number, 3,892 students graduated at ND level, while 2,932 students completed their HND programmes. A total of 117 students graduated with Distinction — 51 at ND level and 66 at HND level — reflecting improved academic performance across departments.
In his address delivered through his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo underscored the importance of education in driving sustainable development and economic growth in Kogi State.
“We are determined to build this institution into a thriving incubator of ideas and innovation, a place where Kogi State can consistently produce a highly skilled and competitive workforce for industries within and beyond our borders,” the Governor said.
Governor Ododo highlighted the reforms and investments made in the institution’s infrastructure and academic environment.
“Education remains the most potent tool for sustainable development. Our government is committed to strategic investments that enhance quality, relevance, access and sustainability across the educational sector,” he stated, noting the alignment of Polytechnic programmes with contemporary industrial needs.
Commending the outgoing Rector, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, the Governor credited his leadership for improved academic regularity and effective resource management.
“Under Prof. Ogbo’s tenure, the Polytechnic witnessed prudent planning and accountability, with no inherited project left abandoned. This is a testament to merit-based leadership and performance-driven governance,” Governor Ododo said.
Delivering his final convocation address as Rector, Professor Ogbo reflected on the progress achieved during his administration and the deliberate reforms that restored academic confidence in the institution.
“This convocation marks the culmination of sustained efforts to restore academic stability and strengthen institutional frameworks. We leave behind an institution that is more secure, more resilient and better positioned for growth,” Prof. Ogbo said.
He further explained that when he assumed office in April 2020, the Polytechnic was grappling with serious challenges, including insecurity, cultism, accreditation deficits, decayed infrastructure, and governance gaps.
“Through our 3R agenda — Repair, Reform, and Restore — we repositioned this institution. We achieved 100 per cent programme and institutional accreditation, introduced e-examinations and e-results computation systems, and strengthened quality assurance mechanisms.”
The Rector detailed improvements in infrastructure, including new lecture theatres, laboratories, hostels, perimeter fencing, solar lighting, and CCTV installations to enhance campus security.
“We prioritized staff welfare, cash-backed promotions, recruitment of nearly 1,000 staff, study leave opportunities, and prompt salary payments. We leave behind no abandoned projects and no backlog of results.”
Professor Ogbo urged the incoming Rector, Professor Sanusi Avidime, to consolidate on the gains recorded, sustain discipline and standards, and deepen digital reforms and partnerships with industry and alumni.
The ceremony also featured the conferment of Fellowship Awards on distinguished individuals, including Governor Ododo, the late Prince Abubakar Audu — founder of the Polytechnic — and other notable contributors to education and public service.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included members of the Polytechnic Governing Council, representatives of government agencies, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the education sector, all of whom reaffirmed their commitment to advancing polytechnic education in Kogi State.
