Leadership is often remembered not only for policies executed, but for the signals it sends about fairness, inclusion and justice. In diverse societies like ours, those signals matter deeply.
As His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, marks two years in office as Executive Governor of Kogi State, many citizens acknowledge his public commitment to unity, equity and inclusive governance.
These ideals have remained recurring themes in his speeches and actions, inspiring hope across communities.
It is in this spirit of constructive engagement that this open letter draws attention to the leadership of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, a critical institution in the state’s manpower development architecture since its establishment in 1993.
A Question of Balance and Inclusion
Over the past three decades, Kogi State Polytechnic has been led by competent Rectors drawn from different parts of the state.
Yet, it remains an undeniable fact that no indigene of Lokoja—the host community and state capital—has ever been appointed Rector of the institution.
This observation is not raised as a complaint, but as a respectful appeal for reflection.
Lokoja has consistently demonstrated goodwill as host to major state and federal institutions, bearing the social and environmental responsibilities that come with such status.
More importantly, the town is home to many qualified academics and administrators who have excelled within and outside the state.
Many stakeholders believe that when statutory and professional requirements are met, extending due consideration to competent indigenes of Lokoja would deepen the sense of ownership, partnership and collective responsibility for the Polytechnic’s growth.
Why the Decision Matters
Appointments to strategic public institutions go beyond filling vacancies; they shape public confidence. An inclusive decision on the leadership of Kogi State Polytechnic would:
Strengthen trust between the institution and its host community Promote social harmony and institutional stability
Reinforce the administration’s commitment to equity across Kogi State
Under Governor Ododo’s leadership, Kogi State has the opportunity to further entrench unity in diversity and demonstrate that no community is overlooked in the march toward progress.
A Candidate Worthy of Consideration
Within this context, Professor Abubakar Mohammed, an indigene of Lokoja, stands out as a strong contender for the position of Rector, Kogi State Polytechnic.
Born on 3rd November 1974 in Lokoja, Professor Mohammed is a Professor of Medical Biochemistry, a seasoned academic administrator, and a committed education reform advocate.
He received his early education at St. Mary’s Primary School, Lokoja, before earning a B.Sc. in Biochemistry from Bayero University, Kano in 2000.
His academic journey later took him abroad, where he obtained an M.Sc. from the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom in 2009, and a Ph.D. in Medical Biochemistry from Allahabad University, India, in 2018.
His teaching and administrative career spans several institutions. At Bauchi State University, Gadau, he served as Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer I and Head of Department between 2013 and 2019.
He later joined the Federal University of Lafia, where he rose from Senior Lecturer to Associate Professor and served as Head of Department and Deputy Dean, playing key roles in accreditation, curriculum development and quality assurance.
In 2024, he was appointed Professor of Medical Biochemistry at the Federal University Lokoja, where he currently serves as Head of Department, Director of the Global Institute of Infectious Disease and Control, and a Member of the University Selection Committee.
At the national level, Professor Mohammed is the North Central Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NSBMB), reflecting his professional standing and leadership capacity.
His research interests include diabetes mellitus, phytochemicals, medicinal plants, metabolic disorders and public health, with numerous publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
A Vision for the Polytechnic
Professor Abubakar Mohammed offers a blend of academic excellence, administrative experience, global exposure and deep local understanding.
His vision for Kogi State Polytechnic is anchored on academic integrity, staff and student welfare, skills-driven education, industry collaboration, institutional stability and inclusive leadership.
Widely respected for his humility, discipline and consultative leadership style, he represents the calibre of leadership many believe can reposition the Polytechnic as a centre of technical excellence and innovation.
A Respectful Appeal
It is the hope of many stakeholders that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will give this appeal thoughtful consideration, in the best interest of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, and the enduring peace and unity of Kogi State.
– Musa Maiyaki
For: Lokoja Consultative Forum (LCF)
