By joshua 
Dr. Y.B. Usman: The Student-Friendly Rector Transforming Federal Polytechnic Idah
In the heart of Kogi State stands one of Nigeria’s foremost institutions of higher learning — The Federal Polytechnic, Idah, a citadel of academic excellence and innovation. At the helm of its affairs is Dr. Yahaya Baba Usman, a visionary leader, an academic per excellence, and a rector deeply loved by both students and staff for his humility, accessibility, and commitment to progress.
From the moment Dr. Usman assumed office as Rector, he hit the ground running. He inherited numerous abandoned projects scattered across the campus — uncompleted lecture halls, dilapidated roads, non-functional street lights, and neglected student hostels. Rather than apportion blame, Dr. Usman chose action. He immediately mobilized efforts to revive and complete the abandoned projects, ensuring that the campus environment reflected the standard of a true institution of learning.
Under his leadership, new hostels have been constructed, and old ones renovated to meet modern standards, providing students with a more comfortable living experience. The internal roads within the campus have been reconstructed, and street lights now illuminate the environment at night, enhancing both aesthetics and security. His administration has also strengthened campus security, ensuring the safety of every student and staff member within the Polytechnic.
One of his remarkable achievements is in the area of student enrollment and growth. When Dr. Usman came on board, the number of students admitted into the Polytechnic was at an all-time low. Through strategic reforms, improved infrastructure, and the restoration of public confidence in the institution, he has tripled the student population, a clear testament to his administrative excellence and the renewed trust in Federal Polytechnic, Idah.
Dr. Usman is not only an administrator; he is a leader with a listening ear. He maintains an open-door policy with the Student Union Government (SUG) and other student bodies. Whenever issues affecting students arise, he attends to them promptly and ensures they are resolved amicably and efficiently. This rare quality has earned him the title of a “student-friendly rector”, a description that truly fits his personality and leadership style.
Today, Federal Polytechnic Idah stands as a model of growth and transformation — a reflection of Dr. Y.B. Usman’s passion, dedication, and visionary leadership. He has proven that leadership is not about titles or power but about service, impact, and empathy.
Dr. Yahaya Baba Usman is indeed a man worthy of emulation — a shining example of what true leadership should represent in Nigeria’s educational sector.