KOGI POLY GOVERNING COUNCIL ANNOUNCES NEW PRINCIPAL OFFICERS, PROMOTES 15 ACADEMIC STAFF FROM PRINCIPAL LECTURER TO CHIEF LECTURER RANK
Kogi State Polytechnic witnessed yet another significant milestone as its Governing Council held the 73rd Regular Meeting on 13th and 14th May, 2026, under the leadership of Barr. Sanni Shaibu, Chairman of the Council. The historic session marked the first Regular Council Meeting under the administration of the new Rector, Prof. Salihu Sanusi Avidime, who was formally introduced to Council members and stakeholders during the proceedings.
The two-day meeting brought together principal stakeholders of the institution for extensive deliberations focused on strengthening the Polytechnic’s governance structure, advancing academic excellence, enhancing administrative efficiency, and charting a progressive course for sustainable institutional development.
During the session, the Chairman formally congratulated the Rector on behalf of the Council, describing him as a modest, empathetic, highly sagacious, and intellectually gifted administrator whose emergence has continued to inspire renewed confidence in the institution’s growth trajectory. He extolled Prof. Salihu Sanusi Avidime as an illustrious Kogite, a respected academic don, and a distinguished scholar whose wealth of intellectual depth, administrative experience, and visionary leadership places him in a strategic position to advance the Polytechnic to greater heights. He noted that the Rector’s assumption of office has ushered in another phase of purposeful leadership and institutional renewal, with visible strides already recorded within a short period, thereby signaling the promise of a productive, progressive, and transformative leadership era for the institution.
Responding, the Rector, Prof. Salihu Sanusi Avidime, in his maiden address expressed sincere appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, for finding him worthy of the noble responsibility, and to former Governor Yahaya Bello for his continued leadership and support, as well as the Chairman and Members of the Governing Council, staff, students, alumni, and other stakeholders for their trust, support, goodwill, and prayers. He described the appointment “not as a personal achievement alone, but as a solemn call to service,” aimed at repositioning Kogi State Polytechnic for “academic distinction, infrastructural transformation, administrative efficiency, technological innovation, institutional discipline, and sustainable development.”
He emphasized that his administration would continue to prioritize “academic excellence, infrastructural development, staff welfare, discipline, innovation, transparency, institutional peace, and technological advancement,” while promoting “an atmosphere of inclusiveness, mutual respect, professionalism, and industrial harmony,” assuring that the doors of the administration “shall remain open to constructive ideas, meaningful dialogue, and collective problem-solving.”
The Rector further assured that with “the continued support of the Governing Council, the commitment of Government, and the cooperation of all stakeholders,” the institution would be repositioned for “greater excellence and sustainable growth.”
Commending the Rector’s assumption of office and inaugural speech, Dr. Emmanuel Adebayo Abanida, a member of the Council, described Prof. Avidime’s inaugural address as “reassuring and visionary,” noting that it reflected “deep institutional understanding, strategic clarity, and commendable leadership maturity.” He stated that the Rector’s “commitment to continuity of excellence in all ramifications of the Polytechnic resonates profoundly with the aspirations of Council, staff, students, alumni, and other stakeholders of the institution.”
He expressed confidence in the Rector’s vision, citing his emphasis on “academic excellence, administrative efficiency, infrastructural development, staff welfare, discipline, research, innovation, and institutional reputation” as indicators of “another promising phase of progress and stability” for the Polytechnic. He added that the Council is encouraged by the Rector’s disposition towards “inclusiveness, consultation, teamwork, and shared institutional ownership,” assuring him of the Council’s cooperation, policy guidance, and institutional support, while wishing him “a most successful, impactful, and memorable tenure of office.”
Another member of Council, Dr. Muhammed Salihu, congratulated the Rector on his appointment, noting that he had been actively following developments in the Polytechnic even prior to the Rector’s emergence. He lauded the Rector’s speech, describing it as thoughtful and reassuring, and particularly commended the decision of the Academic Board under the leadership of Prof. Avidime to prune the academic system through the withdrawal of unserious students, describing the move as a bold and necessary step towards upholding the integrity, standards, and credibility of the institution.
Dr. Salihu further urged the Rector to remain a face of hope to the Polytechnic community, expressing confidence in his capacity to provide purposeful leadership capable of strengthening discipline, restoring academic excellence, and repositioning the institution for greater progress and institutional stability.
In a related development, the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, in a letter dated 13th May, 2026, conveyed through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, formally approved the appointment of new Principal Officers for the institution. The announcement was subsequently made to the Council by the Chairman in line with the State Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional leadership, governance efficiency, and administrative coordination within the Polytechnic.
The newly appointed Principal Officers include the Registrar, who is responsible for the coordination of academic and administrative records; the Bursar, who oversees the financial management of the institution; the Polytechnic Librarian, who manages the academic and information resource systems; and the Director of Works, who is charged with overseeing the physical infrastructure, maintenance, and capital development projects of the Polytechnic.
Their names and designation are as follows:
- REGISTRAR: Barr. Dr. Yahaya Segun Alilu
- BURSAR: Mr. Abdullahi Yahaya Arah
- LIBRARIAN: Mr. Adeniyi John Muyiwa
- DIRECTOR OF WORKS: Mr. Siyaka Michael Onumoh
BRIEF PROFILE:
REGISTRAR
Dr. Alilu is a distinguished scholar, legal practitioner, and administrator from Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria, born on 27th October, 1975. With specialization in Political Economy, he possesses an impressive academic background that reflects his commitment to intellectual advancement and public service. He obtained a Ph.D in Political Science from Federal University, Lokoja in 2025, alongside several other qualifications including a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from University of Ilorin (2023), a Bachelor of Law (2021) and Bachelor Degree in Law (2016) from Prince Abubakar Audu University respectively and the Council of Legal Education, a Master of Public Administration (2006), an M.Sc. in Political Science (2013), and a B.Sc. in Political Science (1999) from Ahmadu Bello University.
Professionally, he has built a rich and diverse career spanning academia, law, public administration, banking, and governance. He has served in several strategic capacities across public and private sectors, including as an Admin Officer at the Local Government Service Commission, Kogi State; Associate at W.A. Aliwo & Co. Crystal Chambers; Branch Manager at Mainstreet Bank Limited; Relationship Officer at Afribank Nigeria Plc; Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Kogi State; Lecturer and Researcher with the department of Political Science, Prince Abubakar Audu University, an institution where he would go on to serve as the immediate past Registrar (2023 – 2026), demonstrating exceptional administrative competence and leadership.
His professional affiliations with the Nigerian Political Science Association and the Nigerian Bar Association further attest to his intellectual depth, legal expertise, and commitment to societal development. With his extensive experience across academia, legal practice, public administration, and institutional management, his appointment as the Registrar of Kogi State Polytechnic is undoubtedly a well-deserved recognition of competence, capacity, and administrative excellence. His wealth of experience is expected to strengthen institutional governance, promote administrative efficiency, and contribute significantly to the continued growth and development of the Polytechnic.
BURSAR
Mr. Abdullahi Yahaya Arah is an accomplished accountant and administrator whose career has been defined by dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to institutional development. Born on October 10, 1979, he hails from Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Ahmadu Bello University in 2002 and later became a member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria in 2024. His professional philosophy is centered on contributing effectively to organizational growth through hard work, accountability, and strategic management.
Mr. Abdullahi has built a robust career in both the banking and education sectors, accumulating years of practical experience in finance, administration, and institutional management. Prior to his appointment as Bursar, Kogi State Polytechnic, he served as the Bursar of Kogi State College of Education (Technical), Kabba, now Mopa, a role he occupied since May 2021, where he has demonstrated competence in financial coordination and prudent management of institutional resources. Before joining the education sector, he spent over a decade with Unity Bank Plc as a Business Service Manager between 2009 and 2021, acquiring valuable experience in financial operations, customer service management, and administrative leadership.
Given his extensive professional exposure and proven track record, Mr. Abdullahi is well-positioned to bring innovation, accountability, and financial discipline to the Bursary Department of Kogi State Polytechnic as Bursar. Drawing from his combined experience in banking and tertiary institution administration, he is expected to work towards improving financial transparency, strengthening internal control mechanisms, enhancing revenue generation strategies, and ensuring efficient allocation of resources. His leadership and expertise would undoubtedly contribute to the advancement and overall financial stability of the Polytechnic.
LIBRARIAN
Mr. Adeniyi John is a seasoned library and information science professional with decades of distinguished service across educational and public library institutions in Nigeria. Born on 14th August 1963 in Aiyeteju-Amuro, Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, he pursued his tertiary education and professional training across reputable institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University (1992–1995), where he laid the foundation for his professional career in librarianship. He later obtained a Diploma in Library Science (1996), B.Sc (Ed) Library and Information Science (2002), M.Sc Library and Information Science (2011), and is currently concluding his PhD programme at the University of Nigeria, which is at the final stage of external defence. His academic pursuit reflects a lifelong commitment to scholarship and professional advancement in library and information science.
Over the years, he has built a great career in library administration and educational services across multiple institutions. He began as a Library Assistant at Kwara State College of Education Library, Oro (1988–1992), before moving to Kogi State Teaching Service Commission at St. Kizito’s College Library, Isanlu (1993–1997) as a Senior Library Assistant. He later served at Okutadudu High School Library, Odo-Ere as Higher Library Officer (2000). His steady professional growth continued at the Kogi State Library Board, Lokoja, where he rose through the ranks as Librarian I (2003), Senior Librarian (2006), and Principal Librarian (2010–2014). He thereafter proceeded to Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa as Librarian I (2014–2021), before his appointment as College Librarian, Kogi State College of Nursing, Obangede (2021–2025), and later returned to Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa as Senior Librarian until his new appointment.
A certified Librarian of Nigeria since 2013, Mr. Adeniyi possesses extensive expertise in information management, academic librarianship, and research development. Widely respected for his discipline, administrative competence, and commitment to academic excellence, he remains a valuable asset to the academic community and a mentor to emerging professionals. His seasoned experience, demonstrated leadership across several tertiary institutions, and consistent excellence in library administration strongly justify his appointment as the new Librarian of Kogi State Polytechnic.
DIRECTOR OF WORKS
Mr. Micheal Onumoh Siyaka was born on 1st June, 1968, in Upogoro. He hails from Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a seasoned engineering professional with academic qualifications in Mechanical Engineering and Plant Service Maintenance. He obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Plant Service and Maintenance from Kwara State Polytechnic between 1995 and 1997, after earning a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution between 1989 and 1991. With his technical background and professional exposure, he has continued to demonstrate competence and dedication in his field.
His professional journey began with his Industrial Training at the National Iron Ore Mining Company Ltd., Itakpe, Kogi State (1991–1992), followed by a Technical Attachment at Ajaokuta Steel Company Ltd., Kogi State (1992–1993). He discharged his compulsory National Youth Service with Interdrill Nigeria Ltd., Warri, Delta State (1997–1998), where he later served as a Mechanical Technician (1998–2001). He continued in the same capacity at Botard Nigeria Limited, Warri (2001–2011), before advancing into safety leadership roles as Safety Supervisor with Temiore Nigeria Ltd/SPDC, Warri (2014–2016), Sapura Energy Services, CONGO NG (2023–2024), and Mangal Cement Industry, Kogi State (2024–2026).
With compelling technical exposure spanning mining, steel production, oil and gas operations, and cement industry safety management, he has developed a rare blend of practical engineering competence, supervisory expertise, and a strong safety compliance culture. This has been built through decades of hands-on experience across critical industrial environments, reflecting both technical proficiency and strong leadership capacity in managing complex operations, maintenance systems, and workforce coordination.
Given this background, his appointment as Director of Works at Kogi State Polytechnic is both strategic and justified. He brings proven capacity in engineering operations, safety supervision, and facility management, which are essential for sustaining and upgrading institutional infrastructure. His wealth of experience will enhance efficiency in project execution, strengthen maintenance culture, improve safety standards across facilities, and ultimately support the Polytechnic’s drive for infrastructural excellence and sustainable development.
Similarly, the Board approved the promotion of fifteen (15) academic staff from the rank of Principal Lecturer to Chief Lecturer, following a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based assessment process conducted by the duly constituted assessors for the 2025 promotion exercise. The exercise carefully evaluated the candidates’ academic excellence, research contributions, professional competence, administrative experience, and overall service to the institution, in line with established promotion criteria.
The promoted academic staff are as follows:
Dr. Shaibu Mahmud Abdulkareem – Department of Business Administration, School of Management Studies.
Mr. Ichado Adejoh Shedrach Paul – Department of Science Laboratory Technology, School of Applied Science.
Mrs. Egbunu Abosede Abiodun – Department of Science Laboratory Technology, School of Applied Science.
Mr. Oluwaseyi James Oluwafemi – Department of Sciences, School of Preliminary Studies.
Mr. Onsachi Joseph Michael – Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resource Engineering, School of Engineering Technology.
Mr. Amodi Augustine Ojih – Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resource Engineering Technology, School of Engineering Technology.
Mr. Ehoniyotan Femi Simon – Department of Library and Information Science, School of Management Studies.
Dr. Ojonugwa Akoh – Department of Business Administration, School of Management Studies.
Dr. Mepaiyeda Seyi – Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resource Engineering Technology, School of Engineering Technology.
Dr. Ebajemito Joan Mojishola – Department of Public Administration, School of Management Studies.
Mrs. Obera Victoria Ahonya – Department of Office Technology & Management, School of Management Studies.
Mrs. Eyimoga Helen Alikeju – School of Preliminary Studies.
Engr. Dr. Mohammed Alhaji Adamu – Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering Technology.
Mrs. Awodi Mamenoka Martina – Department of Language and Communication, School of General and Communication Studies.
Mr. Olugbemi Joshua Ojo – Department of Arts and Social Sciences, School of Preliminary Studies.
The Council Chairman lauded the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary (AP & DC) Committee, under the distinguished chairmanship of the Rector, Prof. Salihu Sanusi Avidime, for a job well executed. He congratulated all the newly promoted Chief Lecturers on their well-deserved elevation and commended their dedication, professionalism, and sustained contributions to academic excellence and institutional development, noting that the promotions were earned strictly on merit following a thorough and transparent assessment process.
He further charged the Chief Lecturers to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating stronger leadership, deeper commitment to teaching and research, effective mentorship of junior colleagues, and unwavering adherence to the ethics and standards of the academic profession.
The Council equally expressed profound appreciation to the outgoing Principal Officers for their dedicated service and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the Polytechnic, praying for their continued good health, greater accomplishments, and success in their future endeavours. In response, the outgoing officers conveyed their gratitude to the Council for the opportunity to serve the institution in various capacities, noting the cordial relationships enjoyed both institutionally and at personal levels. They also extended heartfelt appreciation to the Rector, describing him as a supportive administrator whose leadership has, within a short period, already made a positive and memorable impact on the administration and the Polytechnic community at large.
The two-day session of the 73rd Regular Meeting featured extensive consideration of reports and recommendations presented by various committees of Council, which formed part of the critical discussions and far-reaching decisions reached during the session on matters relating to institutional development, academic quality assurance, staff welfare, discipline, finance, and general administration; all aimed at strengthening institutional governance, enhancing academic standards, promoting administrative efficiency, and advancing infrastructural development within Kogi State Polytechnic.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the administration of the Rector, Prof. Salihu Sanusi Avidime, in driving policies and programmes that would consolidate institutional stability, promote innovation, strengthen professionalism, and sustain the Polytechnic’s vision of becoming a leading centre of academic and technological excellence.
The session ended on a note of optimism, unity, and renewed commitment by all stakeholders towards the continued transformation and sustainable development of the Polytechnic.
– John Amos Onimisi,
Ag. Co-ordinator, Directorate of Public Relations and Protocols, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.
16th May, 2026.