By joshua 
Prof. Salawu VC CUSTECH Celebrates Maiden Convocation with 266 Graduates
Osara, Kogi State — A total of 266 students graduated from the five‑year‑old Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) during its maiden convocation.
Vice‑Chancellor Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu disclosed this in his convocation address, describing the ceremony as a landmark moment for the young university.
The VC noted that CUSTECH now runs 56 NUC‑approved programmes across 44 departments, eight faculties, and one college, with a student population exceeding 5,000.
The ceremony celebrated 132 graduates from the pioneer 2023/2024 session and 134 from 2024/2025, highlighting Kogi State’s investment in modern, technology‑driven higher education.
Prof. Salawu warned of a pressing challenge: land encroachment. He explained that while the state allocated 400 ha to CUSTECH and 100 ha were fenced, 300 ha reserved for future projects (University Farm, Agricultural Research Centre, expansion) are being grabbed by illegal claimants.
“Land grabbers have begun encroaching on the remaining 300 ha, falsely claiming we fenced their land. We have demolished illegal structures, faced threats, and even attempts to disrupt academic activities. Securing the full 400 ha is vital to safeguard our academic mandate and future growth.”
He called on the Kogi State government, traditional rulers, development partners, and private developers to help fence the land and to support hostel construction, noting that current hostels accommodate only 1,000 of 5,000 students*l (≈15%). He also appealed for staff housing and contributions to the university’s Endowment Fund to reward outstanding students.
The Vice Chancellor said the convocation underscores CUSTECH’s rapid expansion and the challenges it must overcome to fulfill its vision.