By Muslimat Itopa
The Governing Council and Management of the Federal College of Education (FCE), Okene, have paid a thank-you visit to Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, at the Government House in Lokoja, commending his administration’s strides in education and seeking further support for key institutional needs.
The delegation, led by the Provost, Dr. Ibrahim Ismaila Mosimabale, expressed appreciation to the governor for his role in the college’s progress and his broader commitment to educational development across the state.
Addressing the visitors, Governor Ododo praised the performance and leadership of the institution’s management, noting that their achievements had made it easier for government and stakeholders to support the college.
He urged the management to sustain the current standard of excellence, promote inclusiveness, and maintain an open-door policy that fosters collaboration among staff.
“The school belongs to all of us. You must continue to work together, accommodate everyone, and give your staff a sense of belonging. Your success is collective,” the governor said.
Governor Ododo also apologized for delays in granting the audience earlier, explaining that the visit had proven to be significant given the strides recorded by the institution.
He reiterated his administration’s readiness to partner with the college, stressing that both federal and state institutions serve the same population.
“Our children attend this school. So, we are ready to collaborate and ensure the institution continues to deliver quality teacher education,” he added.
The governor assured the delegation that their requests would be carefully considered,
highlighting plans to liaise with relevant federal authorities, including the Minister of Education, to address critical needs such as improved power supply through a dedicated transmission line.
He also disclosed that the state government would consider the provision of buses and agricultural equipment, including tractors, to enhance vocational training, while discussions on tax relief for staff would require further consultation with experts.
On infrastructure development, Governor Ododo pledged to support efforts to secure intervention funds, particularly for projects such as a mini stadium, perimeter fencing, and sports facilities, noting the importance of adequate preparation for hosting national events.
Earlier, the Provost, Dr. Mosimabale, commended the governor’s leadership style, describing him as humble, accessible, and committed to the welfare of the people.
He highlighted several achievements of the administration, including improved road networks, healthcare facilities, rural electrification, educational infrastructure, and prompt payment of salaries and pensions.
Dr. Mosimabale noted that the college, established in 1974, is among the few institutions recently granted dual mandate status to run both Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and degree programmes, with approval to offer 21 courses.
He added that the institution has also been selected to host the Nigeria Colleges of Education Games Association (NICEGA), a development that requires significant investment in sports facilities and infrastructure.
The provost appealed to the governor to intervene in fast-tracking TETFund support for the construction of a mini stadium, provision of sports equipment, and other critical infrastructure needed for the successful hosting of the event.
Other requests presented included the provision of a dedicated 33KVA power line, luxury buses for student transportation, tractors for agricultural training, tax relief for staff, and support from the National Sports Commission.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Governing Council, represented by Salomi Ohame, also commended Governor Ododo for his “giant strides” in the education sector, noting that his policies have positioned Kogi State among leading states in quality education delivery.
The visit underscores growing collaboration between the state government and federal institutions in advancing educational development and improving learning outcomes in Kogi State.
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