Kogi Elders Forum Criticize State Government’s Neglect of Federal University Lokoja

The Kogi State Elders Forum has expressed concern over the continued neglect of Federal University Lokoja (FUL) by the state government, leaving the institution’s developmental needs largely to the Federal Government and private individuals. 

Chief (Dr) Julius Elukpo, Chairman of the Forum, voiced these concerns during a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, at the Felele Campus of the university. Elukpo lamented that while other federal universities established at the same time as FUL have seen rapid development through support from both the Federal and their host state governments, the university in Lokoja has been left behind.

"We observed that the university in our domain is lagging behind compared to others established at the same time," Elukpo said, adding that the state government might not fully understand its responsibilities toward the university. He assured that the Forum would engage the Kogi State Government to discuss how it can support the institution’s growth.

Despite this neglect, Elukpo praised the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, for driving significant development at FUL, noting that his leadership has brought about a positive transformation at the university. He recalled that the Elders Forum had advocated for the appointment of an indigene as Vice-Chancellor, and they are now proud of the university’s progress under Akinwumi’s leadership.

Prof. Akinwumi, in his remarks, expressed disappointment over the lack of support from successive Kogi State administrations. He pointed out that, despite being a federal institution, state governments should take an interest in its development, as the Federal Government cannot address all its needs. The Vice-Chancellor highlighted pressing issues such as difficulties in obtaining a Certificate of Occupation (C of O) for the permanent site, security challenges, and the absence of state representation on the university’s Governing Council.

Prof. Akinwumi urged the Elders Forum to act as ambassadors for the university, advocating for more support from the state government and private sectors. He also highlighted the university's growth, with a student population that has expanded from 6,000 to 17,000, alongside the addition of new faculties and a College of Health Sciences.

Other members of the Kogi Elders Forum who accompanied Chief Elukpo included Amb. Usman Bello, Alhaji Isa Adeboye, Chief (Dr) Femi Ajisafe, and Aderemi Seyi Ayodele.

For more updates on Federal University Lokoja, follow the university’s online platforms and social media handles.

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