Recent criticisms attempting to portray the administration of Professor Salisu Ogbo as tribalistic at Prince Abubakar Audu University are not only misleading but also ignore the facts and the impressive track record of a leader who has consistently demonstrated fairness, competence, and institutional vision.
Long before his appointment as Vice Chancellor, Professor Ogbo had already built a reputation as a transformational leader during his tenure as Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic. Under his leadership, the Polytechnic experienced significant reforms, improved academic standards, and major institutional stability. One of the most notable outcomes of his administration was the creation of thousands of employment opportunities within the institution.
Interestingly, statistics from the Polytechnic clearly show that Kogi Central indigenes recorded the highest number of beneficiaries of these opportunities, despite the fact that Professor Ogbo himself is not from the region. This singular fact clearly disproves the narrative of ethnic bias and instead highlights a leader who believes in merit, productivity, and institutional growth.
Even within barely one month in office at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Professor Ogbo has already begun addressing critical issues affecting staff welfare. One of his earliest achievements was resolving the long-standing problem of staff employed since 2018, who had not been captured on the university payroll for nearly seven years. Through strategic engagement with the Kogi State Government under the amiable leadership of H.E. Ahmed Usman Ododo, the affected staff, have now been payrolled and started receiving their salaries from March 2026. For many families, this was a long awaited relief.
His early administrative decisions also show a leader determined to fix the right people in the right positions in order to actualize his developmental plans for the university. Institutional reform requires competence, trust, and efficiency, not sentiment.
It is therefore important for stakeholders and the university community and all meaning kogi citizens to support Professor Ogbo and allow him the space to implement the reforms necessary for the growth of Prince Abubakar Audu University. Leaders with clear vision must not be distracted by narratives that seek to divide rather than build.
Professor Salisu Ogbo has already proven through his work at Kogi State Polytechnic that he is a builder of institutions. His appointment as Vice Chancellor was not accidental. It was earned through years of impactful leadership.
The expectation of the people of Kogi State is simple. We expect Prof Ogbo to remain focused, continue to prioritize merit, and sustain the reforms that will move the university forward. If his past achievements are anything to go by, the institution is clearly on the path to greater stability and development.
Institutional reform requires courage. It requires the willingness to reposition structures, correct inefficiencies, and place capable hands in positions where they can deliver results.
May Professor Ogbo succeed
– Abdulhameed Ivavah writes From Ajaokuta LGA.
