Federal University Lokoja, FUL, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening campus security and promoting institutional collaboration following a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor and Management of Confluence University of Science and Technology, CUSTECH Osara.

The Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, was represented during the visit by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Professor Jacqueline Badaki, who led a delegation to the university.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts by the university to engage relevant stakeholders on strategies for enhancing campus security, improving institutional management, and fostering partnerships that support the growth and development of higher education institutions.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Badaki expressed appreciation to the management of Confluence University of Science and Technology for receiving the delegation. She noted that Federal University Lokoja values opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, particularly in areas that affect the safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and university communities.

She observed that the rapid growth in student population across universities presents new administrative and security challenges that require innovative and proactive responses. Badaki also highlighted the unique security considerations associated with the location of Federal University Lokoja and stressed the importance of learning from institutions that have developed effective security frameworks.

In his response, the Vice Chancellor of Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Engr. Professor Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, commended the leadership of Federal University Lokoja for prioritising engagement and collaboration on issues of mutual interest.

Prof. Salawu assured the delegation of his willingness to support initiatives that promote the safety and stability of university campuses and disclosed his intention to visit Federal University Lokoja in the near future to further strengthen the relationship between both institutions.

Engr. Salawu emphasised the importance of developing strong internal security systems, noting that effective security begins within the institution itself.

"The first strategy is to profile your own security system. Most security challenges do not originate from outside without some level of internal involvement. Institutions must understand their environment and build strong internal structures," he said.

The CUSTECH Vice Chancellor stressed the need for universities to value and support personnel responsible for campus security. According to him, security personnel play a critical role in safeguarding lives and property and deserve adequate support and recognition.

He also highlighted the importance of intelligence gathering and community participation in maintaining a secure environment, noting that students and staff often serve as valuable sources of information that can help prevent security threats.

"Our students and staff are important stakeholders in the security architecture of the university. They provide information, identify concerns, and contribute to the safety of the institution," he stated.

Professor Salawu further urged university administrators to cultivate trust, encourage open communication, and promote inclusive leadership that inspires confidence among members of the university community.

He observed that successful leadership requires wisdom, humility, and the ability to unite people around a common purpose.

During discussions, the management of Confluence University of Science and Technology also showcased innovative initiatives designed to support learning and problem solving within the institution, including a tour around  the campus and faculties for first-hand experience.

The initiative reflects the university's commitment to innovation, technology driven solutions, and practical approaches to addressing contemporary challenges.

The FUL delegation also had in attendance;  the University Librarian, Prof. Sarah Yani; Representative of the Registrar, Mr. Nuhu Shamaki Kaje; Chief Security Officer, Rtd. Lt. Col. Babafemi Sunday Mepaiyeda; Director, Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation, Dr. Tosin Olagunju.

Others include; Protocol Officer, Nsikak John; Administrative Assistant, Mr. Isaac Adebayo; Information Officer, Uduak Etim and the CSO's orderly.

The visit underscores Federal University Lokoja's commitment to adopting innovative strategies that enhance campus safety, strengthen institutional capacity, and support a conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research.

© Directorate of Strategic Communication and Corporate Documentation
Federal University Lokoja