CUSTECH Sets New Standard in University Governance with Maiden Strategic Retreat

The Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, has taken a giant step toward solidifying its operational efficiency and governance standard.

Between September 21 and 22, 2026, the institution held its maiden strategic retreat for members of its pioneer Governing Council and principal officers at the Hawthorn Suites in Abuja.

Themed “The Governing Council of State-Owned Universities: Whither?”, the two-day event aimed to build capacity, promote transparency, and establish strong administrative frameworks for the rapidly growing science and technology university.

Key Highlights from the Abuja Retreat

Declaring the event open, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi (NNOM), emphasized the necessity of the gathering. He highlighted that as a young institution, CUSTECH requires a Governing Council equipped with the right insights to offer strategic oversight and steer sustainable growth.

"As a young and rapidly developing institution, CUSTECH requires a Governing Council that is adequately prepared to provide strategic direction and effective oversight."
— Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi, Pro-Chancellor

Insights from Key Speakers and Experts

The retreat brought together renowned academic leaders and regulatory representatives who addressed critical topics in higher education management:

• Role of the Council in Governance: Emeritus Professor Atubokiki Ajienka (former Vice-Chancellor, UNIPORT) delivered a paper on effective leadership strategies for university councils.

• Stakeholder Harmony: Emeritus Professor Funmi Bickersteth (former DVC, OAU) spoke virtually on building positive, collaborative relationships between the council and key university stakeholders.

• Quality Assurance and Standards: Mrs. Efe F. Ehioghae, representing the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), detailed compliance requirements and regulatory administration.

• Funding and TETFund Interventions: Kor Leticia Kpenbeen (North-Central Zonal Coordinator, TETFund) highlighted proper oversight and utilization of intervention funds.

• Ethics and Anti-Corruption: Mr. Demola Bakare (Director, Education Department at ICPC) lectured on promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within state institutions.

Management and Leadership Reactions

The Vice-Chancellor of CUSTECH, Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, commended the resource persons for their depth of insight. He expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Kogi State and Visitor to CUSTECH, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his unwavering support toward the university’s development.

During the session, participants also paused to observe a minute of silence in memory of the late former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris.

Members of the Council, alongside the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mrs. Glory Ojochogu Yakubu, commended management for executing a high-impact workshop that equips the university for future operational success.

Why Strategic Governance Matters for Higher Education

For young universities like CUSTECH, alignment between administrative councils and regulatory bodies like the NUC, TETFund, and ICPC is vital. Retreats of this nature help:

1. Prevent Administrative Friction: Fosters clear boundaries and healthy relationships between management and council members.

2. Ensure Financial Transparency: Enhances accountability in managing public allocations and development grants.

3. Elevate Institutional Ranking: Drives strict adherence to academic standards and quality assurance protocols.

With this retreat successfully concluded, CUSTECH establishes a benchmark for state-owned universities pursuing excellence in governance and academic delivery.