The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, has expressed deep appreciation to the management of the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC) for its commitment to education and community development, particularly for extending its school support program to FUL, covering payment of school charges for indigent students.

Professor Akinwumi gave his profound acknowledgment for the support when he led a team of management staff from the University on a 'thank you' visit to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the federal government agency, Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, FCNA, FNIIS, at the Commission's office in Minna, Niger State.

In his address at the meeting, the University honcho lauded HYPPADEC's intervention in offsetting tuition fees of about 144 indigent students from Kogi State who are studying different programs at FUL during the 2021/2022 academic session, contributing largely to the success of the first International Conference on Flood organized by the University in June 2023, and facilitating other educational opportunities for the University.

"Your generous assistance in covering the tuition fees of indigent students at our university has not only lightened the financial burden on these students but has also opened up new avenues of learning and growth for them. Your vision for an inclusive and accessible education aligns perfectly with our University's mission, and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment to fostering educational opportunities for all. We are truly grateful for this invaluable partnership.

"I also wish to express our profound gratitude for your active participation in the 2023 International Flood Conference hosted by our University. Your insights and contributions played a pivotal role in making the conference a resounding success. Moreover, the generous donation of Four Million Naira (N4,000,000) naira towards the conference exemplifies HYPPADEC's dedication to addressing critical issues such as flood management and mitigation," Professor Akinwumi remarked.

While underscoring the challenges faced by Nigerian universities, particularly in terms of funding, the Vice-Chancellor, acknowledged the transformative impact of HYPPADEC's admirable interventions and the shared commitment to a better society. He seized the opportunity to express FUL's readiness to further strengthen its collaboration with the agency, stressing that the University was committed to fostering meaningful partnerships. He added that his administration was hopeful that, through continued collaboration, new avenues for intervention would be explored and collectively work towards the advancement of education, research, and community development.

Identifying some key areas of intervention, Professor Akinwumi highlighted erosion control, provision of portable water, solar-powered electricity, scholarship opportunities for indigent students, hostel accommodation, and the establishment of a comprehensive internal road network within the campus, saying they are pivotal to the development and well-being of the students. 

Responding, the MD/CEO of HYPPADEC, Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, Katukan Yauri, who lamented over the current economic challenges in the country however, affirmed the Commission's commitment to exploring immediate interventions and establishing a long-term presence in Federal University Lokoja. He lauded the Vice-Chancellor's innovative, transformative, and forward-thinking leadership, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in leaving lasting legacies in the community and the society at large. See more pictures of the visit here