NKFI New Rector hails Governor Ododo over appointment, Pledges to Reposition Institute for Greater Efficiency

— Says institution will become a revenue-generating hub, prioritise staff welfare and technical excellence

The newly appointed Rector of the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute (NKFI), Lokoja, Dr. Onumoh Ahmed Yahaya, has expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment to lead the state’s foremost technical and vocational institution.

In a statement made available to journalists in Lokoja on Wednesday, Dr. Yahaya also acknowledged the support, mentorship and encouragement of the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, describing his contributions to human capital development as commendable.

The Rector assured the people of Kogi State that he would leverage his extensive experience and expertise to reposition the institute for greater efficiency, improved service delivery, innovation and sustainable growth.

He disclosed that his administration would pursue strategic reforms aimed at transforming the institute into a revenue-generating hub for the Kogi State Government through the optimal utilisation of its critical departments, enhanced partnerships and expanded technical training programmes.

Dr. Yahaya called on members of staff to embrace the vision of the present administration by supporting government policies and institutional reforms designed to reposition the institute for optimal performance and global competitiveness.

According to him, the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute was established to tackle unemployment by equipping Nigerian youths with practical technical and vocational skills that are relevant to the demands of the modern labour market.

He reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to producing a highly skilled workforce through the transfer of South Korean technological expertise, industry-driven training and strict adherence to international best practices.

The Rector identified the institute’s core training areas to include engineering programmes such as electrical installation, automobile diagnostics, welding and fabrication; technology-based courses including cybersecurity, networking and web design; as well as vocational programmes covering fashion design, plumbing and other employable skills.

He emphasised that academic excellence, innovation, discipline, teamwork and professionalism would remain the guiding principles of his administration.

Dr. Yahaya also assured members of staff that their welfare would receive the highest priority, noting that a motivated workforce is essential to achieving excellence and fulfilling the institute’s mandate.

“I believe that when staff are adequately motivated and provided with the right working environment, they will be better positioned to contribute meaningfully to the growth, development and overall success of the institute,” he stated.»

He appealed to all members of staff and stakeholders to work collectively with his administration in repositioning the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute and consolidating its reputation as a leading centre of excellence in technical and vocational education in Nigeria.