By Dada Ahmed, Lokoja.
L-R: Prof.Olayemi Akinwumi,VC,FUL & Prof.Salisu Ogbo Usman, Rector, Kogi Poly.
In a historic step to expand access to quality higher education, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) to commence degree programmes at the Polytechnic’s main campus.
The landmark agreement was sealed on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Senate Hall of Federal University Lokoja, with principal officers and management staff of both institutions in attendance.
This is according to a statement signed by Uredo Omale,
Director, Public Relations and Protocol,
Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja on Friday and a copy available to The Reporters.
Under the collaboration, a Study Centre will be established at Kogi State Polytechnic to host regular undergraduate and Top-Up degree programmes. The regular degree option allows applicants to gain admission through UTME or Direct Entry, while the Top-Up option provides opportunities for HND holders to convert their certificates into corresponding undergraduate degrees, available on both full-time and part-time basis.
Beyond academics, the MoU also provides for staff and student exchange, equipment sharing for practicals, joint research, and collaborative learning initiatives designed to enrich the learning experience.
Speaking at the signing, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, described the partnership as “historic in all ramifications and a legacy achievement of my administration.”
He stressed that the Polytechnic, with its accredited programmes, qualified manpower, robust infrastructure, and secure learning environment, is fully prepared to support the collaboration.
On his part, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwunmi, hailed the development as a dream fulfilled, commending the leadership and vision that brought the agreement to reality.
He noted that the partnership would significantly advance education in Kogi State and Nigeria, adding that implementation should commence without delay.
Also speaking, the Director of the Centre for Distance and E-Learning, Professor Musa Adeku Ibrahim, recalled that the process began with a letter of intent from Kogi Polytechnic on February 12, 2025, which was later approved by the University Senate on August 7, 2025, after an oversight visit.
In his closing remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor A. E. Bala, expressed gratitude to both parties for clarifying grey areas, assuring that the university would strictly uphold the MoU.
