By Sam Tyav, Makurdi
The paramount ruler of the Idoma sub-nation, the Och’ Idoma, HRM Agabaidu John Elaigwu Odogbo, has tasked the Rector and top management team of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, to work hard and implement sustainable initiatives capable of restoring the reputation of the institution.
The monarch disclosed this when the polytechnic’s management team, led by the Rector, Arc. Dr. Henry Ojobo, paid a visit to his palace in Otukpo.
A statement by the Director, Media and Publicity of the Polytechnic, Mr. Nongomin Jacob, said the monarch acknowledged the contributions of the institution to knowledge and community development in its many decades of existence and described it as a beacon of learning.
Leadership in education, according to the Ochi’Idoma, is not a privilege, but a sacred duty to service and encouraged the Rector and his team to take bold steps to ensure full academic standards and discipline mechanism, rebuild clean and well secured infrastructural facilities that would enhance a conducive teaching and learning environment to enable the Polytechnic restore innovation, technical skills and the moral values it was known for.
He lamented the security challenges faced by the institution and further tasked the team to collaborate with community leaders, stakeholders and the youth to help in mitigating such challenges.
The paramount ruler who congratulated the Rector on his appointment, also reminded him of the legacies he would be remembered for, urging him and his team to lead with vision, fairness and inclusiveness, and as well carry out all activities with justice, transparency and above all, fear of God.
He assured of continued support of the traditional institution and appreciated them for finding it necessary to visit his palace.
He blessed the team, further tasking them to work effectively for the good of the institution, the state and the nation at large.
Earlier in his remarks, Dr. Ojobo said the visit was part of management’s initiative to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, adding that it was also meant to officially familiarize with traditional institution of the land for blessings, counsel and prayers for effective service delivery.
He pointed out some of his achievements in his six months in office to include the restoration of peace in the school, digitization of the institution, restoration of water works, organizing the most peaceful and hitch-free matriculation ceremony on recent memory, hosting of the Rector’s football tournament, improvement of staff welfare as well as checkmating of theft, examination results/ certificates forgery, other corrupt practices and social vices.
While the Rector attributed the success so far to the relative peace in the community and sued for its sustainance, he also solicited the support of the Ochi’doma and his Council to enable them reach their desired destination.
Dr. Ojobo was accompanied on the visit by the school Registrar, Dr. Sunday Apochi; Bursar, Mr Joseph Kase; Librarian, Mr Benjamin Antse; Director of Works and Housing, Engr. Gabriel Attah; Director of Academic Planning, Dr. Friday Adejoh; and the Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Nongomin.
*PHOTO CAPTION: The Och’Idoma (seated, with a crown on his head) and his guests during the visit.
