The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Salihu Sanusi Avidime, has called on staff members to support ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the institution for improved performance and sustainable growth.
The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the institution’s Director of Public Relations and Protocol, Uredo Omale, following the rector’s familiarisation visit to the Utakpe campus on Tuesday. The visit forms part of his engagement with staff and stakeholders after assuming office last week.
Addressing workers during the visit, Avidime described the School of Engineering as central to the polytechnic’s core mandate. He stressed the need to strengthen technical education and practical training to align with industry standards and evolving demands.
According to him, the visit was aimed at interacting directly with staff, understanding their challenges, and identifying areas requiring urgent attention to enhance productivity and institutional development.
The rector reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, acknowledging their critical role in achieving academic excellence and institutional stability. He expressed optimism that existing challenges would be resolved through unity, dedication, and collective effort.
Reiterating his stance on fairness and equity, Avidime urged staff to remain diligent and law-abiding, assuring that management would address issues of truancy and misconduct while upholding justice and transparency in administration.
He also expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for entrusting him with the leadership of the institution, and paid tribute to former governor Yahaya Bello for his support and encouragement.
Staff members who spoke during the visit pledged their loyalty and full support for the rector’s administration and reform agenda.
Like many public polytechnics in Nigeria, the institution faces challenges including infrastructure deficits, funding constraints, staff welfare concerns, and the need to modernise its curriculum to meet contemporary industry demands.
