Education
Why I Support Fuel Subsidy Removal, How State Police Can Work – University Don
The fuel subsidy removal is the most serious issue that greeted the President Bola Tinubu led FG Administration with mixed reactions from every quarter within and outside the country. In this interview with Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, Professor of Clinical Anatomy and Medical Anthropology, and the current Vice Chancellor of Nigeria British University Asa, Abia State, by Informavores National Assembly Correspondent, Ogechi Okorie, the issue of Fuel Subsidy removal, State Police, Education among others were discussed.
The excerpt:
Following the removal of fuel subsidy by the president and the Mixed reactions that follow, what is your thought on the issue of fuel subsidy removal?
In my opinion, it is a courageous step. I command the President for doing that. I have never really been an ardent supporter of the President but any President that removes subsidy now is time and infact removal of fuel subsidy is long overdue because a lot of people think that it is poverty alleviation policy but I can tell you that it is still the rich that benefits from it more than the poor. it is the rich who drives Air conditioned vehicles. It is another way of tasking the rich for the poor. if the Government is responsive and responsive and again, the merging of the exchange rate is a step in the right direction. Let the market forces determine the price of the dollar or pound in the foreign exchange market and not artificial means of using Government money and our foreign exchange reserves in the name of supporting manufacturers to bring down prices .So for to me, it is good. Ordinarily a President who come at such a time and with not knowing the possible outcome of the Presidential petition tribunal will want to play to the gallery and come up with policies that looks like welfarist policies in a bid to hoodwink the masses but the President is going ahead taking courageous steps which I see some elements of sincerity of purpose
Not too long ago, Nigeria has an alarming number of out-of-school children. What must the Government do to make sure that the number is reduced?
The Government must improve on the security situation in the country especially in the North East. You don’t expect Families who has been displaced because of insurgency to be talking about Education or putting Education of their children in the front burner when they are
Iiving as refugees in other places
Talking about Education, the President recently signed the student loan bill and a lot of stringet conditions were attached to it. it would have been a welcome development but with the conditions attached to it, are there doubts on its workability?
I don’t support it because anything that has to do with a large no of people in public policy in Nigeria hardly works . For instance, National Housing fund, National Health Insurance Scheme, Pension Scheme did not end well and even the tradermonie that was introduced to help businesses did not end well because many people are not really willing to pay back the money. How can you call some young people and give them 500,000(five hundred thousand naira) every year and you expect them to pay back when they get a job and how will you know they have been employed? it is not likely to work and with the mammoth crowd of young people we have here in Nigeria, how can you push that kind of policy through and which bank will be able to certify 10% of them and to worsen the situation, some people don’t have address because they live in the rural areas. How will you be able to trace this people? I advocate for a moderate increase in tuition whether we like it or not. I sympathise with Vice Chancellor of Public institutions because the tuition they are operating with or with we call school charges, has been operational for nearly 20 years. 20 years ago the salaries of their employee has tripled more than 4 to 5 times and you expect people to use charges of 20 years ago to run a municipal community?
It is unlikely to work because you will maintain security on campus, ensure there is adequate water supply, light and other municipal services, clean environment and all. I don’t see it working but a moderate increase in school fees for instance, private universities could be charging upwards of 1.5million to 2million, it won’t be too much to ask public universities to charge 10% of that. There is no where in the world where Education is for paupers, in as much as brilliant children from poor homes want to go to school, if there is no scholarship, people,families should be able to put together 100,000(hundred thousand)for a year.
We have a lot of people in middle class and even in the lower class paying for private, primary and secondary school and beyond that for their children and come to think of it, University education does not come even if you consider the services that is being rendered and the qualifications of the teachers and when you consider how long it took them to get their Degree, Masters, PhD and do so much research to become professors.
The process of the loan scheme is just not workable. How do you get students to fill forms and get their parents to also fill tax clearance forms as well, maybe get guarantors and all. How many of them will bank get to administer their accounts and how do you get the money back maybe after 10 and 20 years when the people who gave them the loan are no longer there in the bank to retrieve the loan? Look at what happens to corporate institutions taking loans from bank it takes a lot to recover those loans and that is why we have Amcon and Amcon is being stifled by corruption. So in this situation you give a young person 500,000 Naira and you think it will be easy to get the money back. It is true they do it in UK and some Western countries. They have a way of making sure that the money is payed back and it is a criminal offence when you don’tpay back the loan but here ,because you don’t have the record you will not know when the person has gotten a job.
Coming to Insecurity, with the rate of crime and many people advocating for State police, What is your take on this?
You cannot stay in Abuja and police 774 local Government Areas in this country. I have put a paper about my proposal on the issue of state police. I understand why the Government at the center is dragging their feet. Some Governors will be using them at will but at the same time, it can be curbed in the sense that every state police will still have its command at the center. There will be a police council that will be responsible for their professional activities like promotion and things like that but the police belongs to the state and since the Governor is the Chief Security officer of the state, every other ranked person will be an indigenes of the state and the officers will not have to be indigenes.
And when there is a countrol over how police is used by the Chief Security Officer of the State,there won’t be much need for all the various paramilitaries in the country. So at the end of the day, I seriously advocate for state police.
Infact, I even advocated a situation where the AIGs are in charge of 2 states and Commissioners of police 1 state and then the Area commands, should be under the authority an Assistant Commissioner of Police.So in every State, with 3 to 4 Area commands should be manned by a Chief Superintendent of Police because there are local Government Areas so an Area commander should Man it and in so doing, it brings police closer to the grassroot. The DPO stay where they are and the Deputy Commissioners of police will work with the Commissioners of police and once it goes beyond the state, you can now juggle people that are not from that state as AIGs so that if because the Commissioner of police of a state wants to be used by the Governor, the police Council will not allow that to happen.
Finally Prof, let’s talk about your University?
The Nigerian British University is a very beautiful brand, it isa world class 21st century conventional University. We have been licensed by NUC since last year and it was formally inaugurated this year. The Nigerian British University is bringing a blended British/Nigerian educational system where you can come and spend 2 years with us and spend 1 year in one of our affiliate University abroad and you can gain their Degree or ours and it is properly intertionalised to the extent that we expect people to come from outside the country to be our student and for those who cannot afford the 2 plus1, you stay there for the 4/5years (depending on the course)and graduate with a well rounded education which improves your employability and entrepreneurship skills because we are bringing a lot of mentoring and when you look at our recreational and extra curricular activities,you see that we are trying to build a global citizen and again, our security architecture is very good.
The University is opposite 144 battalion and our internal security architecture is also top notch. All our student will be on campus and I will advocate for any parent/parents who wants a top notch University who offer the very best to come to Nigerian/British
What courses does Nigerian/University offer?
We are a conventional University and we are not faith based. For a start we have faculty of computing and information technology, faculty of law, faculty of management and social sciences and our business school is going to start running post graduate programmes in the business school with our international affiliations.
We are affiliated with some Universities in the UK where they can start the program and do 6 months of their PhD research in those Universities outside the country if they chose to and we are planning to start Medicine and Engineering in the near future hopefully by the next academic section
Thank you Prof for your time.
Thank you for having me.
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Education
Kogi Poly Uncovers Certificate Forgery, Document Falsification Syndicate, Vows To Deal With Culprits
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has uncovered massive certificate forgery and document falsification syndicate in the institution with a vow to deal with culprits
The Rector of the Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo disclosed this while briefing Journalists in his office, the development which he described as “of serious concern regarding the integrity of its academic system”.
Professor Ogbo said the institution uncovered the scandal involving some students, non-students, and some members of staff who conspired to manipulate academic records of the institution.
According to the Rector, the syndicate was found to have manipulated academic records, forged results, and attempted to obtain original certificates using fake documents, in connivance with some staff members, including a Deputy Registrar, who are currently on suspension.
He explained that the syndicate forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) results, with some individuals even attempting to collect original certificates for the fabricated results, noting that “such criminal acts represent an assault on the credibility and reputation of our institution, and they cannot be allowed to go unpunished”.
He said investigations revealed several cases of document falsification, including forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) results, with some suspects compromising the institution’s security arrangements and tampering with security features on the institution’s Statements of Result.
Highlighting some of the cases under investigation, Professor Ogbo revealed that one Amina Mustapha forged ND and HND results and attempted to use them to obtain original certificates in connivance with some staff members.
Amina who was alleged to have appeared alongside a staff member, Mr. Dominic Egwuda, who is currently on the run, to collect both ND and HND certificates in Computer Science never attended the institution as a student.
He cited another case involving Mfon Asuquo, a student who had absconded with multiple carry-overs, fraudulently obtained a statement of result.
He said Dansuma Mercy Sunday, who connived with a former student, Henry Tope, also forged statements of result.
The Rector who noted that the suspects used sophisticated methods to compromise the instruction’s security arrangements and tamper with security features on official documents, said all the suspects involved in the forgery scandal would be handed over to the Police for further investigation and diligent prosecution, to serve as a deterrent to others.
Prof. Ogbo recalled that before joining KSPL, the academic integrity of the institution was nothing to write home about due to the activities of some individuals who forged security documents, particularly the Statement of Results.
“Then, it was alarmingly easy for individuals to forge and print statements of result of the Polytechnic at business centres. Some even had the audacity to present such forged results back to the Polytechnic, and to the same department they allegedly “graduated” from”.
He explained further that his administration, on assumption of duty, however changed the Statement of Results template to a more secure version, which had minimized the forgery to the barest minimum.
“In addition, we have also implemented comprehensive reforms across all sectors of the Polytechnic, aimed at achieving academic excellence and restoring the integrity of the institution.
“In the same vein, we introduced stringent measures to enhance quality assurance, stamp out irregularities and curb sharp practices.”
He said despite the successes recorded in the fight against the malaise, ”it’s disheartening that the Polytechnic has once again uncovered document falsification syndicate involving some students, non-students and a few dishonest members of staff who conspired to manipulate academic records in flagrant disregard of due process and institutional values “.
“Following intelligence reports and routine verification exercises by the Admission, ICT, and Security units, a detailed investigation was launched in collaboration with relevant law enforcement agencies.
“Investigation revealed shocking levels of audacity and deceit. Some of the suspects forged National Diploma (ND) results in the name of Kogi State Polytechnic and had the temerity to apply for Higher National Diploma HND admission in the same institution using the forged ND results. Even more alarming, others forged both ND and HND results and had the guts to apply for the collection of original certificates for the same fabricated results”.
“We are pleased to inform the public that four suspects involved in the forgery of statements of result were apprehended during registration. They have been handed over to our security unit, whose investigation led to the unmasking of the broader syndicate behind this academic fraud”.
“In another discovery, a staff member in the Exams and Records unit already under disciplinary review had in his possession 30 forged Statements of Result bearing different names and programmes. Security operatives also recovered several fake official stamps, stamp pads and admission letters bearing different names and programmes from his residence”.
While reiterating its uncompromising zero-tolerance policy for academic fraud and unethical conduct, the Rector emphasized that any staff member, student, or external collaborator found culpable will face the full wrath of the law and institutional disciplinary measures.
“We shall not relent in our effort to expose and eliminate all forms of misconduct that is capable of denting hard earned reputation of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.
“All individuals involved in this forgery scandal will be immediately handed over to the Police for further investigation and diligent prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others.”
He again assured the public, other stakeholders and the Polytechnic community that its quality assurance measures and security mechanisms remain fully active and uncompromised, insisting that the institution will not relent in its efforts to protect its integrity and reputation.
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Education
NKFI Rector X-rays 3 years of Success story
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Rector of Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute (NKFI) of Vocational and Advanced Technology, Dr Williams Charles Oluwatoyin has marked three-year in office with impressive achievements that have transformed the institution to unprecedented growth in the last three years of his leadership.
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Speaking in a chat with Our Correspondent on Tuesday October 21st, 2025 in Lokoja, Williams asserted that his administration has led NKFI to unprecedented heights, achieving significant milestones that have transformed the institution in the past three years.
Under his astute leadership, NKFI has experienced remarkable growth and advancement, exemplified by a staggering 500% increase in student enrollment, escalating from a mere 40 students as at September 2022, when I assumed office, to over 900 students as of September 2025, all within a span of three years.
One of the remarkable achievements of the leadership of Dr Williams is the deployment of NKFI’s website and academic portal, as well as over 200% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) within the period of three years under review, far improved than what was obtainable before assuming office .
The Rector, who assumed office on 2nd of September, 2022, has also revamped the institute’s infrastructure, enhanced campus security, and introduced new programs, including Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Photography/ Cinematography and fashion design.
Other notable initiatives introduced by the Rector includes the development of distance learning for remote academic activities, creation of the following Directorates and units ; Directorate of Student Services, Directorate of Academic planning , establishment of NKFI Consultancy Services, Entrepreneurship Development Centre, Directorate of Linkage , partnership and collaboration, Public Relations Unit, Research Innovation and Development unit. Department of Part time and the department of Vocational training
The Rector has also signed over 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with several institutions including Kogi State Polytechnic, Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), and the African Development Study Centre (ADSC) to foster partnerships and collaborations in areas of resources sharing, students’ growth research and fabrications, among others.
Dr Williams’ administration also got ifull accreditation of all its Programmes by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The accredited programmes include: Automotive Mechatronics; Welding and Fabrication; Electrical/Electronic Technology and Computer Software Engineering.
The Institute’s staff have also benefited from unrelenting efforts of the Rector with the integration into the tertiary institution salary scale, and ensuring timely payment of salaries for ad-hoc staff, and creation of a Cooperative society.
Under Dr Williams’ leadership, the institute has approved the establishment of a part-time studies center at Obajana centre, and secured a permanent site for the institute for future expansion.
The administration of Dr. Williams has developed policy documents that were not available before he was appointed. They are ; the academic, physical and a strategic master plan (Vision 2030), and trained over 250 Kogi youth in KOYESA training in over 8 different Vocation while handing over starter packs .
The rector also lauded the collaborations and partnerships forged with the people and Government of Korea, which have been instrumental in supporting students through training initiatives and capacity-building endeavors for staff, all aimed at realizing the institution’s objectives in vocational training and advanced technology.
Dr Williams conveyed his profound gratitude to the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for deeming him worthy of the appointment to serve the esteemed populace of the state.
He also lauded Governor Ahmed Ododo for his steadfast commitment to the institute’s mission of nurturing dynamic youth adept in vocational skills and advanced technologies.
This initiative empowers them to attain self-sufficiency and emerge as employers of labor, thus significantly contributing to the economic progress of the state as a technological hub of Nigeria.
The students, staff and stakeholders at the institutions, lauded Dr. Williams’ impressive achievements, noting that his leadership has been instrumental in transforming NKFI, and they believe that he has the vision and expertise to take the institution to even greater heights.
A staff who spoke to our a Reporter on condition of anonymity, “We believe in Dr. Williams’ capacity to take NKFI to even greater heights. His vision, leadership, and expertise have been instrumental in transforming the institution, and we have no doubt that he will continue to make significant contributions to NKFI’s growth and development”.
“As staff of NKFI, we’ve witnessed Dr Williams’ commitment to excellence and his vision for the institution.
“We’ve seen significant growth and development under Dr Williams’ leadership, and we’re confident that he’ll continue to take NKFI to greater heights,” An Adhoc staff said.
A non teaching staff said: “Dr Williams has been an outstanding leader, providing us with the necessary support and resources to excel in our security roles. It would be a great opportunity for him to build on his achievements.”
“His leadership has transformed our learning experience, and we’re confident he’ll continue to take our institution to greater heights.”
A student, Michael Apeh, said: “Mr. Williams has been an amazing leader, providing us with state-of-the-art facilities, innovative programmes, and opportunities for growth.
“Under Dr. Williams’ leadership, NKFI has become a hub for academic excellence and innovation”.
A stakeholder, Mr Abdullahi Usman, said: “As a partner institution, we’ve witnessed NKFI’s transformation under Dr. Williams’ leadership which has been beneficial to the institution and the community at large.
“The rector has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, and his vision for NKFI aligns with our organization’s goals.
Another stakeholder, Mr Shittu Adelabu stated: “We’ve seen the positive impact of Dr. Williams’ leadership on NKFI’s students, staff, and the community.
“We believe in his ability to continue to take the institution to even greater heights,” another stakeholder asserted”
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Education
FUL Vice Chancellor Charges Graduating Students To be Good Ambassadors
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, has charged graduating students of the institution to be good ambassadors of their Alma mater as they go into the wider world
Professor Akinwumi gave the charge at the 9th Convocation Ceremony of the institution held at its permanent site, Felele, in Lokoja on Saturday.
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He told the graduands that the world they are about stepping into is filled with challenges and limited opportunities hence the need for them to hold fast to the values learned from their institution.
“Integrity, hard work, service to humanity, and innovation should remain your goals wherever you found yourselves in your future endeavours. Your success is not measured only by personal achievement but also by impact you make in lives of others. Be bold, be vissionary, and let your alma mater be proud of you” the VC admonished.
The VC disclosed that the university embarked on the construction of a 1.72-megawatt solar power plant at the cost of N3 billion ($200 million) to boost electricity supply on campus.
Akinwumi said that the project was meant to illuminate the university for academic excellence.
The VC explained that the project was assisted by the African Development Bank and the World Bank under the Energising Education Programme.
He described the plant as a significant step towards sustainable energy in the university community.
“This landmark project is a testament to the university’s commitment to environmental responsibility and operational self-reliance.
“We strongly believe that the 1.72-megawatt solar power system will enable the university to generate surplus electricity and achieve energy self-sufficiency and benefit students and staff for generations to come,” he said.
According to him, the solar power project is part of the university’s efforts to promote innovation and sustainability.
He noted that when completed, the project would not only reduce the university’s reliance on public electricity but would also provide a clean and renewable source of energy.
Akinwumi further disclosed that a total of 5,051 graduates of the 2024/2025 academic session would receive various degrees and diplomas, comprising 3,466 undergraduates, 747 diplomas, and 838 postgraduates. He said, “Out of the figure, 35 students bagged first class, 760 with second class upper, 2,287 with second class lower, 383 with third class, and one with pass.
Akinwumi took the opportunity to highlight his administration’s achievements, emphasising that the university has recorded landmark achievements across various fronts under his leadership.
He stressed that the university has grown from a modest institution into a multi-faculty university with robust academic offerings, new faculties, and programmes.
He said that despite limited funding, FUL has undergone a visible infrastructural transformation, with 34 major projects either completed or ongoing.
Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdallah, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Federal University, Lokoja, in his address at the event, congratulated the graduands for the completion of their academic journey with huge success.
The Pro-Chancellor held that Federal University, Lokoja, had flourished in the last five years under the vissionary leadership of the VC Professor Olayemi Akinwumi.
According to him “Over the past few years, we have witnessed consistent advancement in our academic programmes, infrastructural development, and research endeavours” the Pro-Chancellor attested.
He appealed to the federal government to as a matter of necessity to construct Pedestrian Bridge across the expressway that traverse directly in front of the permanent campus at Felele to avert the incessant flow of trailers, trucks, and automobiles constituting safety hazards to students, staff and other people who cross it on daily basis.
Ends
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