By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, has announced that the institution will graduate 2,196 students during its convocation ceremony this weekend.
Speaking at a press conference held on Monday at the university’s multipurpose hall, Felele campus, Akinwumi provided a breakdown of the graduating students’ performance, noting that 41 students earned first-class honors, 461 achieved second-class upper, 974 secured second-class lower, and 384 received third-class degrees. Three students were awarded pass degrees.
“This year, a total of 1,863 students will receive first degrees, 117 will be conferred with diplomas, and 216 will receive postgraduate degrees, including PhDs, master’s, and PGDs. This brings the total number of graduating students to 2,196,” he stated.
Akinwumi also revealed that honorary degrees would be awarded to distinguished personalities who have made significant contributions to the university and the nation.
“As they prepare to embark on the next phase of their journey, we encourage our graduates to carry with them the values they’ve learned at FUL—respect, integrity, innovation, dedication, and diligence,” Akinwumi added.
Highlighting the achievements of the current administration, Akinwumi announced that the National Universities Commission (NUC) had approved the introduction of several new academic programs at FUL. These include LL.B. Law, Doctor of Pharmacy (D. Pharm), Bachelor of Agriculture (B. Agric), Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (B.MLS), and B.Ed. Educational Management and Planning.
“Admissions for these programs are underway for the 2024/2025 academic session, reflecting our commitment to expanding academic opportunities at FUL,” he said. Additional programs include B.Sc. Microbiology, Biochemistry, Industrial Chemistry, Public Administration, Banking and Finance, Mass Communication, Computer Science, and Statistics.
Akinwumi also announced a collaboration between FUL and the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, National Assembly, Abuja, to offer postgraduate studies, further enhancing the university’s academic offerings.
Furthermore, the NUC has approved the full-time delivery of eight academic programs in affiliation with Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.
Akinwumi noted that over 17,000 candidates selected FUL as their first choice for the 2024/2025 academic session, with more than 11,000 meeting the UTME cut-off of 160 and above. He confirmed plans to admit 9,000 students, with the new academic session set to begin on November 10, 2024.
He expressed satisfaction with the recent NUC accreditation exercise, reporting that out of 42 programs submitted for accreditation, 34 received full accreditation, while eight were granted interim accreditation.
Looking forward, Akinwumi mentioned that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) is expected to conduct a second accreditation visit in early November 2024, underscoring the university’s commitment to high academic standards.
In a significant development, FUL has established the first-ever zoo and conservatory in Kogi State, a facility aimed at advancing tourism, research, and community engagement. The newly commissioned facility will serve as a hub for research, education, and environmental conservation, enhancing both the academic and cultural landscape of the state.
