By Friday Idachaba
The Governing Council of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has approved the appointment of new principal officers and the promotion of 15 academic staff to Chief Lecturer rank, in a move aimed at strengthening leadership and boosting academic excellence.
The decisions were taken at the institution’s 73rd Regular Governing Council Meeting held on May 13–14, 2026, chaired by Barr. Sanni Shaibu.
The meeting also marked the first regular council session under the new Rector, Prof. Salihu Sanusi Avidime, who was formally introduced to stakeholders. Council Chairman Shaibu congratulated him, describing his appointment as the beginning of renewed institutional growth.
Prof. Avidime, in his maiden address, thanked Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello for their support, pledging reforms focused on academic excellence, staff welfare, innovation, discipline, and infrastructural development.
Governor Ododo also approved new principal officers in a letter conveyed through the Secretary to the State Government, Folashade Arike Ayoade. The appointees are Barr. Dr Yahaya Segun Alilu (Registrar), Mr Abdullahi Yahaya Arah (Bursar), Mr Adeniyi John Muyiwa (Librarian), and Mr Siyaka Michael Onumoh (Director of Works).
The council further confirmed the promotion of 15 lecturers after a merit-based assessment, commending the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee for a transparent exercise.