By Danjuma Amodu
Professor Salihu Sanusi Avidime’s first 100 days as Rector see renewed focus on academic standards, security, digital upgrade and vocational training.
LOKOJA — Professor Salihu Sanusi Avidime has completed his first 100 days as the 8th substantive Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic with what the institution describes as “a trajectory of progress and purposeful leadership” anchored on structure, discipline and institutional reforms.
Avidime, who assumed office on February 11, 2026, began his tenure with physical inspections and direct assessments of schools, departments and facilities at both the main campus in Lokoja and the Itakpe campus, according to details released by the polytechnic.
“The first 100 days reflect the emergence of structure, the strengthening of systems, and the laying of foundations upon which broader academic excellence, infrastructural renewal, and institutional transformation are expected to stand.” — John Amos Onimisi, Ag. Coordinator, DPRP
In a press statement issued Thursday by the Acting Coordinator, Directorate of Public Relations and Protocols, John Amos Onimisi, the administration highlighted major actions taken within the period under review.
Key among them is the strategic reconstitution of administrative positions. Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors and other officers whose tenures had expired were replaced “in line with extant regulations, following careful consideration of competence, integrity, experience, and institutional needs,” Onimisi stated.
On infrastructure, the Rector’s administration has commenced renovation of the Polytechnic Library to transform it into a modern academic resource centre with improved reading spaces, digital access, internet connectivity and updated materials. The contract has been awarded and work is ongoing, the statement said.
The Information Technology and Resource Centre is also being expanded and upgraded to enhance e-learning capabilities and ICT-driven administrative processes. In addition, the Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) Laboratory upgrade has been completed to boost practical-based learning and technical competence.
Security has received priority attention, with the engagement of additional personnel to strengthen surveillance and access control. Reconstruction of the perimeter fencing is underway to enhance safety and protect institutional assets.
Another major policy milestone is the restructuring of the Part-Time and Vocational Studies Programme. The reform introduces flexible learning models, vocational and entrepreneurial training, and satellite study centres to widen educational opportunities and boost internally generated revenue.
Onimisi noted that the achievements were strengthened by sustained collaboration with the Kogi State Government under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Ministry of Education led by Commissioner Dr. Wemi Jones, and development partners.
“Engagements with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and related stakeholders has also been intensified, with several interventions in the pipeline,” he said. The interventions target critical infrastructural gaps, academic facilities and institutional capacity.
The Rector, according to the statement, reaffirms his commitment to continuous improvement of academic standards and the promotion of staff and student welfare. “The administration remains firmly focused on creating an enabling environment where teaching and learning can thrive,” Onimisi added.
Overall, the first 100 days have “set a clear foundation for purposeful leadership anchored on structure, discipline, and forward-looking institutional direction,” the statement concluded.
