By Abdulkadir Bin Abdulmalik.
The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to staff welfare, infrastructural development and academic advancement
During a familiarisation visit to the Faculty of Agriculture on Wednesday, Prof. Usman emphasised the importance of networking and collaboration aimed at attracting research grants, especially considering the growing relevance of agriculture and technology in contemporary society.
According to him, interdisciplinary research remains essential for institutional growth and global relevance, noting that both the University and the Faculty stand to benefit immensely from such collaborations.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the Faculty for maintaining its physical structures, noting that proper maintenance culture reflects institutional responsibility and commitment to excellence.
He recalled his contributions to academic development in Kogi State, particularly the establishment of Agricultural Technology programmes at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, adding that he also desires to be remembered for positively contributing to the growth and development of the Faculty and the University at large.
He reiterated his commitment to improving staff welfare and infrastructural development, stressing that leadership is temporary while posterity remains a fair judge of service and impact.
The Vice-Chancellor assured staff of his determination to continue championing progressive ideas capable of advancing the institution and called for stronger synergy among academic units to achieve shared goals.
He emphasised that universities must not become transient environments where talents come and go unchecked, urging stakeholders to prioritise retention of the institution’s best academic and professional hands.
Prof. Usman expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his consistent support and encouragement toward the University, assuring that the present administration would continue to enjoy government backing.
The Vice-Chancellor also disclosed plans to establish institutional retainership arrangements with reputable academic publishing outlets to enable staff publish in high-impact journals at affordable rates.
He further revealed ongoing efforts to build a robust, vibrant, and globally connected alumni association, warning against the emergence of parallel or parasitic alumni groups capable of undermining the integrity of the institution.
On campus safety, Prof. Usman assured that the University’s security architecture would be rejigged to enhance effectiveness and ensure a safer learning environment.
The Vice-Chancellor concluded by emphasising mentorship as a critical pillar for academic continuity, urging senior academics to guide younger scholars in sustaining excellence and institutional values.
Receiving the Vice-Chancellor and his management team, the Dean of the Faculty, Professor A. E. Agahiu, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as encouraging and reassuring for staff and students of the Faculty.
Prof. Agahiu congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and noted that members of the Faculty are optimistic that the University would witness greater progress under his leadership.
The Dean highlighted several challenges confronting the Faculty, including inadequate staffing, shortage of classroom spaces, insufficient electricity supply despite the provision of solar panels, and persistent water supply difficulties.
He, however, expressed confidence that the situation would improve with the coming of the new Vice-Chancellor.
Responding, Prof. Usman described the Faculty of Agriculture as a solid and strategic academic faculty of the University.
He maintained that all challenges presented by the Faculty are surmountable through collective commitment and strategic planning, while stressing that agricultural education must remain practical and solution-driven.
The Vice Chancellor was accompanied by the principal Officers of the University, Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof. J.J Orugun, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof. Oja Paul Egwemi PhD, Registrar, Barr. Segun Alilu, Bursar, Dr. (Mrs) Aminat Anuhi amongst others.
