Kogi State’s third university takes off as Gov. Bello urges Nigerians to take advantage of FG’s student loan scheme

As the third Kogi State-owned university took off on Tuesday, Gov. Yahaya Bello has urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s newly introduced Student Loan Scheme to pursue a university education.

Speaking at the official maiden matriculation ceremony of Kogi State University (KSU), Kabba, established by his administration, Bello urged Nigerians to take advantage of the student loan scheme introduced by President Tinubu as a means to acquire higher education.

“I am delighted to be present here today for the first matriculation ceremony of Kogi State University. This is the fulfillment of our dreams. I urge Nigerians to utilize President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s student loan scheme and pursue university education.

“There should be no reason for anyone to be without a university degree anymore,’’ Persecondnews quotes Gov. Bello as saying.

The newly-established university matriculated its first set of 1200 students into its 25 bachelor’s degree programs, and the faculty model consists of three faculties, including administration, management and social sciences, arts, and humanities, as well as science and computing.

According to Bello, KSU aims to deliver high-quality education, promote research, teaching, and academic excellence in the state, and provide education infrastructure in the Western senatorial district.

The institution will also provide an avenue for more Kogi citizens and people from neighboring states to access university education.

Expressing satisfaction in seeing his vision of establishing a university in Kabba become a reality, he recounted the challenging state of affairs when he assumed office and expressed gratitude that he is leaving the state in a much better condition.

Bello also urged the people of Kogi State to embrace inclusive politics and avoid engaging in divisive tactics, emphasizing the importance of remaining focused and not allowing distractions to hinder progress.

“Education has been one of our top priorities since we assumed office. I am proud to announce that we are currently ranked as the best in our geopolitical zone in terms of education.’’

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kehinde Eniola, commended Bello for his commitment to funding education and described the new institution as one that focuses on citizenship and leadership training.

He said it would equip students with the necessary skills for the future.

The Obaro of Kabba, Oba Owoniyi, also praised Gov. Bello for his exceptional efforts in “revitalizing the traditional stool of Kabba’’ and for establishing the university in the area.

According to Persecondnews, the National Universities Commission (NUC) approved the establishment of the new Kogi State University, Kabba, in the state’s Western Senatorial district in 2023.

Following the establishment of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, in 2020, it is the second university that Gov. Bello has created.

Also, Kogi State University, Anyigba, located in the Eastern senatorial district and established in 1999 by the late Prince Abubakar Audu, was renamed Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU) in 2020 by Bello.