The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, received members of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Kogi State Branch, on a courtesy visit to his office.
The delegation, led by the Chairperson, Barrister Oluwakemi Omeiza Usman, commended the Rector for his transformative leadership and developmental strides at the Polytechnic.
She described FIDA as a global non-governmental organization present in over 75 countries, with 44 branches across Nigeria, committed to the protection and promotion of the rights of women and children, particularly the girl child.
According to her, the visit aimed to seek collaboration with the institution in supporting FIDA’s initiatives, especially in addressing gender-based violence, promoting mentorship for young girls, and advancing the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
In his remarks, Professor Usman expressed appreciation for the visit and lauded FIDA’s commitment to justice, equity, and free legal aid for the indigent. He assured the group of his support and willingness to partner on projects that aligned with human rights advocacy.
The Rector also highlighted the importance of ADR in resolving disputes peacefully and pledged his availability for future FIDA-led programmes.
Barrister Amaka Egema, in her closing remarks, thanked the Rector for the warm reception and for showing interest in FIDA’s mission.
Other members of the FIDA delegation included Unekwu Odiba, Ifeoluwa Olubukola Oshagbemi, Amina Mani Idris Aduku, Deborah Isoyiza Abedo, Isah Shifau Oyiza, Yuhamza Laminde Mahmud, Hanatu O. Abdullahi, Hibat Umar, and Tina Ekele.
In a related development, Professor Usman was honoured as the “Best Performed Rector in North Central Nigeria (2021–2024) award” at the 2025 Nigeria Post/Margaret Ekpo Memorial Lecture and Awards held at the NUJ Press Centre, Lokoja.
The event, a collaboration between the Nigeria Post and the Margaret Ekpo Biographical Centre,” brought together distinguished voices from across the state.
Serving as the guest speaker, Professor Usman delivered a compelling address on the theme: “Children: Our Future, Our Responsibility.”
He reflected on how evolving technologies are reshaping children’s learning and social realities. While digital tools present immense opportunities, he cautioned that they also pose serious risks such as exposure to inappropriate content, cybercrime, and digital addiction.
Professor Usman emphasized the vital role of parents, educators, religious leaders, and government in creating safe and productive digital environments for children.
He noted that empowering parents who are the primary molders of children must be at the heart of any sustainable solution.
Uredo Omale
Director, Public Relations and Protocol.
Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.
