Kogi federal varsity introduces ‘one-day VC’ programme to inspire students
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Federal University, Lokoja, Nigeria, has launched a "Vice Chancellor for a Day" initiative to foster leadership and academic excellence among students.
- The program is part of achievements marking the first 100 days of Vice Chancellor Professor Gbenga Ibileye's tenure.
- Other key developments include securing N3 billion in funding, establishing an AI and robotics center, and achieving full accreditation for eight academic programs.
The Federal University, Lokoja, in Kogi State, Nigeria, has introduced a unique "Vice Chancellor for a Day" program aimed at inspiring students and promoting leadership qualities. This initiative is a highlight of the numerous achievements celebrated during the first 100 days of Vice Chancellor Professor Gbenga Ibileye's administration.
Professor Ibileye, who assumed office on February 16, 2026, announced the symbolic program designed to confer leadership of the university upon a deserving student. He described it as a celebration of academic excellence and a testament to the administration's commitment to investing in its students. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the university's academic standing and student engagement.
Reflecting on his tenure so far, Professor Ibileye highlighted the successful attraction of significant new funding, including a N3 billion grant from a tertiary education trust fund. A major development is the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Cyber sciences. This center is poised to position the university at the forefront of emerging technologies, serving as a hub for advanced research, postgraduate training, and skill development for the region.
Further bolstering the university's academic credentials, eight programs have received full accreditation from the National Universities Commission. These include Mass Communication, Computer Science, Education Mathematics, Integrated Science, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, and Sociology. Additionally, infrastructure at the Felele Permanent Campus has been upgraded, with renovated sanitation facilities and refurbished boreholes. The university's Vision Plan 2026–2031 has also progressed to the White Paper stage.
The symbolic ‘Vice-Chancellor for a Day’ initiative has been launched to confer the symbolic leadership of the university on a deserving student, a celebration of academic excellence and a powerful statement of the administration’s investment in its students.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.