Nigeria Korea Friendship Institute honours Ex Kogi Poly Rector, Prof. Ajibero with memorial Lecture, unveils strategic plan for 2024-2030

In view of his remarkable achievement in the education sector in Nigeria, the Nigeria/Korea Friendship Institute (NKFI) on Thursday, hosted a public lecture to honour the late former Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof. Mathew Idowu Ajibero. 

Our Kogi State Correspondent, reports that the event, which was graced by creme de la creme within and outside the State was held in Lokoja, with the unveiling of the institution’s strategic plan for 2024–2030.

Some of the prominent personalities that witnessed the August event are  Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor of Kogi State, Captain Idris Wada; Chief Silverster Onoja, Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede, Traditional rulers amongst others.

In his welcome address, the Rector of NKFI, Dr. Williams Charles, described Prof. Ajibero as a trailblazer in education whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for vocational and technical education in the state. He lauded Prof. Ajibero’s selfless decision to allocate the land on which NKFI currently stands, emphasizing that the institute remains a testament to the late academic’s passion for empowering youth through skills acquisition.

“Today, we celebrate a life that has profoundly shaped our academic institution and community. Prof. Ajibero’s legacy is a reminder of the enduring power of ideas and values that transcend time. His dedication to vocational education continues to inspire our mission and vision,” Williams said.

Highlighting NKFI’s achievements under his leadership, Dr. Charles enumerated several milestones, including a 250% increase in student enrollment, the launch of the institute’s first website, infrastructure upgrades, and the introduction of cutting-edge programs in AI, robotics, and cybersecurity. He also announced ongoing training of over 250 Kogi State youths in specialized skills, with support from the state government.

Notable accomplishments shared during the event included the approval for a 200-bed hostel construction, integration of staff into the tertiary institution salary scale, and partnerships with reputable organizations like JAMB and NBTE.

The theme of the lecture, “Developing the Capacity of Entrepreneurs: The Role of Technical and Vocational Education,” was delivered by Dr. Lamidi Kehinde of Kogi State University, Kabba.

The lecturer stressed the vital role of technical education in addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth, aligning with Prof. Ajibero’s lifelong advocacy for vocational training.

In his address, Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo praised late Prof. Ajibero’s transformative leadership at Kogi State Polytechnic and dedication to vocational training.

Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Hon Wemi Jones, the governor said the state government is commited to education advancement and has commited huge funds to ensuring that the state is positioned amongst the best in education in the country. He also expressed the state government’s committed to the development of technical education, assuring that would continue to do so considering the enormous potential technical education to the new world economy.

The Country Director of Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Mr. Son Sungil, appreciated the Kogi State Government for its partnership in ensuring the smooth running of NKFI. He noted that Korea government has acknowledged the commitment of the state government to development of technical education, and assured that they will continue to support NKFI to actualize its objective.

On his part, Captain Idris Wada, commended the Korea government, management and Board of NKFI for uplifting the standard of the institution. Wada who said NKFI was established to address the growing need for vocational skills, praised the current and immediate past administration of Kogi State for giving needed support to the institution.

Similarly, Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede and Chief Sylvester Onoja emphasized the need for increased funding for the institute, noting that vocational and technical education is crucial for driving the nation’s technological advancement.

Speaking on behalf of the family, son of the late Prof. Matthew Ajibero, Oluwafemi Peter Ajibero thanked NKFI for recognizing the legacy of his father and imortalizing him with the lecture. He assured the institution of his family’s continued support.

Highlights of the event was the unveiling of NKFI’s Strategic Plan for 2024–2030 described as a “blueprint for innovation, impact, and excellence”, and presentation of awards to Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo and other dignitaries who have contributed to the growth of NKFI.

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