The Rector of the Nigeria Korea Friendship Institute, Lokoja, Dr. Williams Charles Oluwatoyin, has revealed that the institute acquired 50 hectares of land for its permanent site as part of its plan for strategic expansion.
He made this while delivering his keynote address at the institute’s maiden memorial lecture in honour of Late Prof. Matthew Idowu Ajibero. The event also featured the unveiling of NKFI’s strategic plan 2024–2030.
In his address, the Rector stated that the commencement of securing a third phase intervention project from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is under way, hence the need to be futuristic in all it does concerning the institute.
The Rector narrated that the land located at Apata in the Oworo axis of Kogi State was allocated to the institute upon a request made to the Olu Apata of Apata Land Oba, HRH, Oba Fredrik Durojaiye Balogun JP.
The Rector, however, emphasised the significance of this acquisition, highlighting how it marks a pivotal step in the institute’s growth and development, while expressing gratitude to Oba Balogun for his support and vision for educational advancement in the region.
“This land will serve as the foundation upon which we will build state-of-the-art facilities that will enhance our academic offerings and provide a conducive environment for learning and research,” he stated.
The Rector also outlined the strategic plan for 2024-2030, which includes expanding academic programs, increasing student enrolment, and fostering partnerships with international institutions.
Giving his remarks, the state commissioner for education, Hon. Wemi Jones hinted that the government of Kogi State, under the current and past leadership, has always shown interest in education with several initiatives and programs that are pointers to the good intentions of the APC-led government in the state.
He added that the institute has a remarkable role to play in helping the government actualise its desire to empower its youth in the area of vocational and technical learning, which has become more relevant in recent times, while lauding the Rector for having a futuristic and strategic approach to the growth and advancement of the institute.
During the lecture, various stakeholders, including a former Governor of Kogi state, Capt. Idris Wada; Prof. Emeritus Olugbemiro Jegede, a former secretary to Kogi state government, and Chief Sylvester Onoja, among other highly esteemed educators, traditional leader leaders, military officers, and students, gathered to honour the memory of Prof. Ajibero, whose contributions to education and community development were celebrated.
The Rector urged everyone to collaborate in realising the ambitious plans laid out, stating, “Together, we can transform NKFI into a leading institution that not only contributes to the local community but also to the global academic landscape.”
