Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman Honoured by NAPS as He Moves from Rector to Vice Chancellor

By Kehinde Odinde 

The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has presented an Award of Excellence to Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, marking his transition from Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic to Vice Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU). The honour, described by NAPS as a celebration of his “remarkable contributions to education in Nigeria,” was conferred at a historic handing-over ceremony attended by dignitaries, students, and stakeholders.

NAPS President, Comr. Eshiofune Paul Oghayan noted that Prof. Usman’s tenure as Rector was defined by transformational leadership and measurable progress. Under his stewardship, campus security was restored, academic integrity strengthened, and e-governance systems introduced to ensure transparency and efficiency.

His administration achieved 100% reaccreditation of all academic programmes by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), secured result and certificate systems, and introduced new academic programmes and schools. He also advanced infrastructural development and consistently prioritized student and staff welfare, earning widespread confidence in institutional processes.

NAPS extended warm congratulations to Prof. Usman on his well-deserved appointment as Vice Chancellor, expressing confidence that the same excellence he brought to the polytechnic system will elevate PAAU to greater heights. The association also appreciated Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, for recognizing Prof. Usman’s competence, and former Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON, for initially appointing him as Rector.

Describing Prof. Usman as a leader of “character, competence, and compassion,” NAPS emphasized that his impact has been intentional and transformative, not merely symbolic. They reaffirmed their unwavering support for his new chapter, praying that his leadership at PAAU will usher in even greater accomplishments and lasting influence on Nigerian education.

The ceremony was marked by goodwill messages from student leaders, academic staff, and government representatives, all of whom praised Prof. Usman’s inclusive style of governance. Many noted that his open-door policy created a bridge between management and students, fostering trust and reducing tensions on campus.

Prof. Usman, in his acceptance remarks, expressed gratitude to NAPS for the recognition and pledged to continue championing quality education, innovation, and youth empowerment in his new role. He emphasized that his mission remains to build institutions that nurture both character and competence.

Stakeholders at the event highlighted his role in introducing digital tools for result processing and student records, which significantly reduced delays and malpractice. This, they said, set a benchmark for other polytechnics and universities across the country.

The outgoing Rector also used the occasion to call on students to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their studies, noting that education remains the strongest weapon for national development. He urged them to embrace leadership with responsibility and integrity.

As he assumes office at PAAU, expectations are high that Prof. Usman will replicate his transformational strides, positioning the university as a center of academic excellence and innovation. NAPS concluded by reiterating its confidence in his ability to deliver, describing his appointment as “a round peg in a round hole.”