The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, Prof. Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, has paid a courtesy visit to the Ohimege Igu of Koton Karfe kingdom, Alhaji Dr. Saidu Akawu Salihu Koto, to deepen collaboration between the university and the traditional institution.

The visit took place at the monarch’s palace on 19 May 2026 and focused on strengthening town-gown relations and securing the support of the Koton Karfe Traditional Council for the university’s academic and community outreach programmes.

Speaking during the engagement, Prof. Ibileye said traditional rulers remain critical partners in promoting peace and stability, which are essential for teaching, research, and student welfare to thrive.

“The Federal University Lokoja values the role of traditional institutions in fostering harmony within our host communities. We are here to seek your guidance and partnership as we expand academic programmes and community-based initiatives that benefit the people of Kogi State,” the Vice Chancellor stated.

Prof. Ibileye briefed the monarch on ongoing developments at FUL, including academic expansion, infrastructure projects, and student support initiatives. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to working with host communities to address issues affecting staff, students, and residents around its campuses.

The Vice Chancellor also congratulated the monarch on earning a Ph.D. recently and prayed that the academic attainment would be used for the development of the Koton Karfe Kingdom.

In his response, the Ohimege Igu, Alhaji Dr. Saidu Akawu Salihu Koto, commended the university management for the visit and pledged the palace’s support for FUL’s mission. He described the institution as a vital asset to the educational and socio-economic growth of Lokoja and Kogi State at large.

“Education is the foundation of any society that wants to progress. The palace will continue to support efforts that promote learning and uplift our communities. We are open to working closely with the university to achieve these goals,” the monarch said.

Prof. Ibileye was accompanied by principal officers of the university, including the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof. S.D. Musa; the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof. Jacqueline Badaki; the Bursar, Mr John Sule Shilo; the Chief Security Officer, Rtd. Lt. Col. Babafemi Sunday Mepaiyeda; and members of the Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation.

The visit forms part of the Vice Chancellor’s ongoing stakeholder engagements aimed at positioning FUL as a centre of excellence in teaching, research, and service, while building stronger ties with host communities across Kogi State. See more pictures here

© Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation
Federal University Lokoja