Professor Usman Ogbo Emerges as Leading Contender for Vice Chancellor Position at PAAU

Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, is at a pivotal moment in its leadership transition as Professor Usman Salisu Ogbo, the current Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, has emerged as a top candidate for the office of Vice Chancellor. 

Reports from Sunday, January 25, 2026, indicate that Professor Ogbo’s extensive administrative experience and transformative leadership at the Polytechnic have positioned him as a strong favorite in the ongoing selection process. 

Before his tenure as Rector, Professor Ogbo served in several senior capacities at PAAU (formerly Kogi State University), including Head of the Department of Political Science and Dean of Student Affairs. As Rector, he is credited with radically improving the Polytechnic’s infrastructure, securing full accreditation for over 50 programs, and restoring institutional discipline.

Stakeholders cite his ability to bridge academic excellence with "street credibility" and effective resource management as ideal qualities for the university’s top job. 

The incumbent Vice Chancellor, Professor Marietu Ohunene Tenuche, is currently in her final year of service. Under her leadership, the university recently held its 7th Combined Convocation on Saturday, January 24, 2026, graduating 26,160 students as part of its 25th-anniversary celebrations. 

While an official announcement has yet to be made by the University's Governing Council, Professor Ogbo's potential appointment is being closely monitored by the academic community as a possible "new era" for the institution.