Kogi State governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his investment in the education sector, particularly the strengthening of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
He said the investments have made visible impact on infrastructure, research and training in Nigeria's tertiary institutions of learning.
The governor stated this at the weekend during the 7th combined convocation and 25th anniversary celebration of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, marking his first official convocation outing as visitor to the school since assuming office.
The governor who was also a recipient of a honorary Doctorate degree of the University, said
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
"TETFund remains one of the most strategic investments in Nigeria's future. I call on the Federal Government to further strengthen it for greater impact," he appealed.
According to the management of the University, in recognition of his contributions to public service and governance, Governor Ododo was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration during the ceremony.
He dedicated the honour to past leaders who laid the foundation of the university and to the people of Kogi State.
"This honour belongs to the people of Kogi State and to all leaders who have contributed, in one way or another, to the growth of this institution," he said.
Governor Ododo described the ceremony as a defining moment for reflection, celebration, and renewed dedication to academic excellence, stressing that nations are not built by physical infrastructure alone, but by enlightened, disciplined, and innovative minds.
"Education remains the strongest instrument for shaping the future of any society. While roads and buildings are important, it is knowledge, character, and discipline that truly build enduring nations," the governor said.
He paid glowing tribute to the late founder of the institution, Prince Abubakar Audu, describing him as a visionary leader whose belief in education continues to shape generations.
"Though Prince Abubakar Audu is no longer with us, his dream lives on in every lecture hall, laboratory, library, and in the aspirations of every student who passes through this great institution," Ododo noted.
The governor observed that the university has recorded remarkable growth in size, stature, and credibility, citing improvements in infrastructure, academic stability, research culture, and programme expansion.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
A major highlight of his address was the full reactivation and accreditation of the MBBS programme, which had remained dormant for 12 years.
"Beyond accreditation, our government has deliberately provided the infrastructure, equipment, and manpower required to train world-class medical professionals," he said.
"This moment marks a defining chapter in the history of this university. This is the era when Prince Abubakar Audu University truly came of age."
Governor Ododo also emphasized his administration's commitment to student welfare, noting that bursary schemes and other support interventions have been sustained to ensure that financial challenges do not hinder access to education.
He added that the state government has improved internal road networks within the campus, enhanced security architecture, and promoted collaboration among state-owned tertiary institutions to strengthen academic output.
Earlier, the pro-chancellor and chairman of Council, Professor Ibrahim Abdul Aguye, disclosed that the university has recorded sustained progress, including 100 per cent accreditation of all academic programmes for the past five years.
