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Usman Ogbo: The Professor Who Defied the Odds
In the heart of Kogi State, Nigeria, there lived a man who would become a legend in his own right. Professor Salish Ogbo Usman, a name that would echo through the corridors of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja leaving an indelible mark on the institution and its people.
They called him the “Administrative Wizard” – a man who took on the challenge of transforming a polytechnic on the brink of collapse into a thriving institution of learning. And, man, he delivered!
On assumption of duty dated 7th April, 2020, Prof. Usman set out to work his magic. He was like a conductor leading an orchestra, expertly harmonizing the disparate elements of the polytechnic to create a symphony of success.
Under his leadership, the polytechnic underwent a transformation of epic proportions. Sophisticated buildings were mounted and existing ones renovated; facilities were upgraded and academic programs were revamped and new programmes reintroduced. It was like a phoenix rising from the ashes – a true marvel of modern times.
But Prof. Usman’s greatest achievement was not just in the physical and administrative transformation of the polytechnic but in the lives of the people he touched. He is a mentor, a role model and a friend to many. His door was always open and his ears were always willing to listen.
And, let me tell you, he had a sense of humor that could light up a room. Who could forget his famous phrase, “I’m not a magician but I can make things happen”? It was his way of saying, “I’m not a miracle worker, but I’ll work darn hard to get the job done.”
But what really set Prof. Usman apart was his relentless pursuit of innovation. He was always pushing the boundaries, always seeking new and better ways to do things. And he expected nothing but the best from his staff.
As he would often say, “I want to see achievable innovations, not just empty promises!” He would charge his staff to “think outside the box” and “be responsive to the needs of the students and the polytechnic community.”
But perhaps one of Prof. Usman’s greatest achievement was his ability to eradicate cult–related crimes from the polytechnic. It was a feat that many thought was impossible, but Prof. Usman was determined to make it happen. And it did happen!
The young result–oriented academia made it a point to honor those who had served before him, meticulously recognizing and rewarding their contributions to the polytechnic thereby earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and predecessors.
And now, as a testament to his outstanding performance, Prof. Usman’s tenure has been renewed before its expiration in February 2025. His new tenure will span until 2029, giving him even more time to continue his remarkable work if Allāh wills.
Today, reflecting back on Prof. Usman’s remarkable tenure, we are of course reminded of the power of vision, determination and leadership. He showed us that, with hard work and dedication, even the most impossible challenges can be overcome.
So, this is to Prof. Salish Ogbo Usman – a working legend, a hero and an inspiration to us all. May his story motivate and empower readers to strive for greatness and may his mark continue to inspire us and the generations to come.
— Abdulkadir Bin Abdulmalik
abdulmalikabdulkadir@gmail.com
Kogi State, Nigeria
