By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Faculty of Medicine at Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has received full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC), paving the way for the institution to admit its first set of 50 medical students for the 2025/2026 academic session beginning in October.
The development, also confirmed by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), marks a significant milestone for the university and Kogi State at large.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo was credited for playing a decisive role in securing the accreditation. His intervention followed an appeal by the Igala Cultural Development Association (ICDA), led by Deputy Governor Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, which had urged government action to revive the long-dormant medical program.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, described the approval as a landmark victory for healthcare and medical education in the state. He noted that reactivating the faculty of medicine at PAAU underscores the government’s commitment to advancing both education and healthcare delivery.
Observers say the accreditation will help address the shortage of medical professionals by training doctors locally, thereby improving healthcare outcomes for residents of Kogi State.
Governor Ododo’s leadership has been widely praised for prioritizing education and healthcare development, with many describing his approach as inclusive and people-centered, transcending tribal, religious, and political divides.
