The Kogi State Government has restated its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at repositioning education in the state.
The state Commissioner for Education, Hon Wemi Jones gave the assurance during the 2025 matriculation ceremony of new students at the Kogi State study centre of the National Teachers Institute (NTI) in Lokoja.
Jones emphasised the importance of teacher training, noting that the future of children lies in the hands of teachers.
Represented by the ministry’s Acting Permanent Secretary, Mrs Omolayo Berikisu Onozare, Jones appealed to students to remain committed to their academics.
He highlighted Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s significant budgetary allocation to the education sector, stressing that the training of teachers cannot be compromised under any guise.
The Director General and Chief Executive of NTI, Professor Sadiya Daura, said the institute’s programmes were designed to equip students with necessary skills for national growth and development.
Represented by the Kogi State Coordinator of NTI, Alh Tijani Yusuf, Daura warned students against indiscipline, emphasising the institute’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.
She urged them to strive for impact in their lifetime after training.
On his part, the Director News and Publications, Kogi State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Samuel Atuluku, expressed concern about the “get rich quick syndrome” among young people.
Atuluku appealed to parents to ensure proper discipline of their children and wards to change the narrative and secure a greater future for them.
The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the matriculation oath to new students enrolled in NCE, Bachelor Degree, and Postgraduate Degree programs in Education.
The event marked a significant milestone for the students, who are expected to benefit from the institute’s programs designed to equip them with necessary skills for national growth and development.