According to the legendary organization expert and pioneer of modern leadership principles, Warren Bennis: "leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality." 

The above contemporary definition of a true leader is not only apt but reflected in the sterling character and personality of our dear Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi PhD, FHSN, AvHF, FNAL, the man whose pragmatic and transformative leadership are glaringly visible in the number of giant leaps that Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has recorded under his visionary administration in less than two years.

Undoubtedly, his footprints and innovative ideas are rapidly transforming the twelve-year-old Institution into a 21st Century citadel of learning that can be reckoned with globally. No wonder he already achieved more than 70 percent of his five-year Vision Plan within two years in office despite being confronted with the 8-month industrial disputes that impacted negatively on our ivory towers. One can only imagine the level of progress FUL would have witnessed without the national strike!

Therefore, on this historic day, we celebrate a focused leader and astute administrator with an unparalleled commitment to the development and greatness of FUL in spite of the daunting challenges. Fifty-nine hearty cheers to a workaholic and pacesetter who operates open-door and all-inclusive leadership.

We are celebrating a rare gem, an achiever, a great leader and distinguished academic of repute, a renowned Professor of history who has traversed over 30 countries yet remains the most humble Vice-Chancellor in Nigeria.

Dear Prof. Akinwumi, on this auspicious occasion of your birthday, we want to remind you of how much we cherish you. We are grateful for having you as our 3rd Vice-Chancellor at this crucial moment in FUL's history. Indeed, you came at the right time God had ordained! You are the answer to the hopes and aspirations of Kogites and Nigerians who earnestly prayed and yearned for such a leader as visionary as you are; a visioner who is not only prepared but fully determined to take FUL to enviable heights against all odds.

Our dear VC, history will remember you for your sacrifices and selfless efforts in ensuring that you bequeath a transformed University that is globally visible and recognized for its quality impact in teaching, research, and community service. As you are working round the clock, thinking outside the box, using your international influence and networks of well-meaning friends to attract accelerated development to FUL, know that you are writing your name in gold in the annals of FUL success stories and book of chronicles. 

In conclusion, when a man is diligent in his business and doing it with the whole of his heart, one of the sure rewards of such a life of commitment to purpose is that the man shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men as promised in the Holy Scriptures. 

Sir, may you reap the reward of your labour and hard work. May God grant your heart's desires and give you the needed wisdom and good health as you continue in your efforts of making FUL a cynosure of all eyes. 

Happy birthday, our dear Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi

Congratulations! 

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