Prof. Akinwumi: Celebrating 3 Years of Exceptional Leadership at FULokoja

February 15, 2021, marked the beginning of a new era as Professor Olayemi Akinwumi assumed office as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL).

Stepping into his role amidst a divided institution and challenges with ASUU, Professor Akinwumi faced the daunting task of revitalizing a university that languished in the lower echelons of academic recognition.

Upon his appointment, FUL consisted of only eleven fully functional, resource-verified, and accredited programmes in two faculties with other new programmes struggling to gain resource verification and accreditation from the National Universities Commission, (NUC). Undeterred by the initial setbacks, Professor Akinwumi embarked on a relentless journey of transformation.

In just six (6) months, through unwavering dedication and strategic marketing efforts, FUL met and surpassed the vision of its founding fathers and emerged as a leader among the 12 Federal Universities established during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan. Under Professor Akinwumi's stewardship, academic culture and traditions were revitalized, with inaugural lectures soaring from a mere two (2) in a decade to an impressive 16 within three (3) years.

Beyond academic excellence, Professor Akinwumi's tenure has been marked by a proactive approach to infrastructure development. Leveraging personal connections and networks, he attracted multimillion-naira projects to enhance every aspect of university life, from road networks to state-of-the-art facilities.

His ability to cultivate relationships with globally acclaimed personalities has further elevated FUL's profile, with distinguished public lectures and generous donations pouring in to support the University's growth trajectory.

Today, FUL stands on the cusp of realizing its full potential, with a comprehensive array of programs addressing the nation's critical manpower needs, particularly in the North Central region. The College of Health, under the dynamic leadership of Professor Michael Ozovehe Ogirima, mni, is welcoming its third cohort of MBBS and Nursing students, while the Faculty of Engineering nurtures a pool of highly motivated scholars.

Exciting developments are underway, with plans for a Faculty of Engineering complex in advanced stages with the Faculty of Law following and resource verification pending for Faculties of Law, Pharmacy, and Agriculture. Despite the perennial challenge of funding, Professor Akinwumi remains resolute in his commitment to achieving holistic development.

A visit to FUL's website and social media platforms reveals a plethora of achievements, earning the university the moniker of a perpetual construction site, symbolizing its tireless pursuit of excellence.

As we celebrate three (3) years of Professor Olayemi Akinwumi's visionary leadership, we applaud his unwavering dedication and transformative impact on Federal University Lokoja. 

Congratulations on a remarkable tenure, and here's to many more years of progress and prosperity under your guidance.