In a significant demonstration of its commitment to the advancement of higher education in Kogi State, the state government has officially received three state-of-the-art facilities at Kogi State University, Kabba. The newly completed structures, which were handed over by contractors on May 19, 2025, include a modern library, a temporary Senate building, and a cutting-edge classroom block.
During the ceremony, Hon. Abanika Taiye, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, expressed gratitude to former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, who played a pivotal role in initiating these transformative projects at the university. Hon. Abanika emphasized that the former governor has set a remarkable precedent for educational development in the state. He noted that the establishment of this esteemed institution has greatly benefited numerous students and their families, as it has reduced the need for students to seek education outside the state.
Furthermore, Hon. Abanika highlighted that the administration of His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo is dedicated to continuing the initiatives started by his predecessor, which have culminated in the successful realization of these projects. He affirmed that the state government has made substantial investments in infrastructure development, with this project being a key component of its broader efforts to enhance educational facilities throughout Kogi State.
The keys to the new facilities were formally handed over from the contractors to the commissioner, who subsequently presented them to the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Kehinde T. Eniola. This event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing commitment to improving educational resources in the region
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry ESV(Dr ) Obadaki Zainab,in her speech appreciated the former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza who made the beautiful foundation for kogi State to stride, she also appreciated the present Governor His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for agreeing to carry the mantel of leadership to greater heights,she stated that from what she saw, the government didn’t waste money for bringing the projects to reality.
During the event, Engineer Suleiman Kabiru, the State Consultant for the Ministry, expressed his gratitude to both past and present governors for the impressive edifice. He urged the Vice Chancellor, faculty members, and students of the University to take diligent care of the facilities, emphasizing that such stewardship would encourage the government to invest further in the institution’s future.
In his closing remarks, the Vice Chancellor acknowledged former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, whom he referred to as his benefactor, for his pivotal role in establishing the University and transforming it from its original state into its current form. He also extended his appreciation to the current Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Chief Servant of the state, for his commitment to continuity and consolidation in governance. The Vice Chancellor noted that the University could aptly be referred to as the “University of Continuity and Consolidation.”
Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the Supervisory Ministry, specifically the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, for its prompt oversight and inspections, which ensured the delivery of high-quality work. He also commended the contractors for their timely completion of the project and adherence to established standards.
The handover ceremony was attended by representatives from the contracting firms, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, a team from the Ministry of Housing, as well as the Vice Chancellor and his administrative team.
Blessing Ameloko-Odoh,
PRO,
Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
