Isa-Kida takeover as VC of FULafia
By Faith AM
Professor Mohamed Isa-Kida, has on Wednesday taken over as the Fourth Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), Nasarawa State.
Isa-Kida, a Professor of Accounting has taken over as the new VC following the expiration of the tenure of Prof. Shehu Abdul-Rahaman.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony on Wednesday at the institution, the Vice Chancellor said he was deeply humbled and dedicated his appointment to God.
The VC said that his appointment represented more than a personal milestone, it symbolises continuity, transition and renewed hope for thousands of students whose dreams are nurtured within the university.
Isa-Kida acknowledged the expectations and weight of his office and promised to operate an open-door policy to expand access to quality higher education, promote research and innovation, thereby contributing meaningfully to national development.
He explained that in just over a decade of establishment, the institution had recorded remarkable growth in academic programmes, infrastructure, staffing and student population.
“These feats were achieved due to the visionary leadership of my predecessor and those before him and the collective efforts of the entire staff and students.
“The university will continue to depend on research and develop solutions to the challenges facing the country, develop ideas and develop future leaders intertextually, ethically and socially,” he added.
The Vice Chancellor said that his administration would build on the achievements of his predecessor, address the gaps and introduce reforms that would strengthen the system for the benefit of the university community and the entire country.
Isa-Kida promised that his administration would be inclusive, evidence-based, transparent and manage the resources prudently.
He noted that the management under him would prioritise quality assurance mechanisms, ensure curriculum relevance, promote interdisciplinary and problem-solving research, and invest heavily in staff development for optimal performance.
The Vice Chancellor also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, as well as the traditional rulers and host community for the opportunity to serve and support the institution and promised not to disappoint them.
On his part, Prof. Shehu Abdul-Rahaman, immediate past VC of the university expressed gratitude to God for seeing him throughout his tenure and appreciated the President, Governor and staff for their support and appealed that they should extend it to the present VC.
He expressed optimism that his successor would even perform more than him and would get all the support he needed from the critical stakeholders and the university community.
In her goodwill message, Pro-Chancellor of the university, Mrs Lola Fibisola-Akande appreciated the immediate past VC for bringing development and stabilising the institution, wishing him well in his future endeavours.
She also congratulated the new Vice Chancellor on his appointment and expressed confidence that he would strengthen academic research and ensure quality education programmes as well as improve the welfare of staff for better outcomes.
