Kogi State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Josiah Majebi, has pledged robust support for the initiative.
Justice Majebi announced his backing during a meeting with the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Durotimi Akinwumi, and his team at his office on Thursday.
Prof. Akinwumi’s visit aimed to seek collaboration from the state’s judiciary to aid the accreditation process by the National Universities Commission.
The Chief Judge expressed his willingness to mobilize state judges in support of the faculty, reminiscent of the pivotal role played by the former Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Umaru Eri, in the establishment of the Law Department at Kogi State University.
“Your achievements at the Federal University, Lokoja are commendable, and we are ready to partner with you to ensure the success of the Law Faculty,” Justice Majebi affirmed.
He further committed to facilitating the provision of legal resources and encouraging judicial participation in academic activities at the institution.
“I will facilitate the provision of books and encourage my colleagues to participate in seminars, legal clinics, and other academic activities at your institution,” he added.
Justice Majebi advised the university to make a formal partnership request detailing the number of judges needed and their expected roles.
He also proposed organizing a visit by some judges to the university to better understand how they can contribute.
Prof. Akinwumi highlighted the university’s growth since its inception in 2001, expanding from four faculties to include Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy, Agriculture, and now Law. He shared that the Faculty of Law had received NUC approval and was awaiting verification to commence full academic activities.
“We have been actively working to expand our academic offerings to include crucial disciplines like Law,” he noted.
The Vice Chancellor also disclosed a substantial N500 million donation aiding the near completion of the university’s library infrastructure, while emphasizing the need for ongoing financial support.
He called on stakeholders, especially from the legal profession, to contribute books, materials, and expertise to bolster the university’s law library and academic programs.
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bala Abdullahi, expressed gratitude to Justice Majebi for his willingness to assist, describing it as a pivotal step towards fulfilling the university’s mission of delivering quality legal education and enhancing Kogi State’s socio-economic development.
The meeting, attended by key university officers including Prof. Etannibi Alemika, concluded with both parties agreeing to discuss further partnership terms to support the Faculty of Law.
This collaboration underscores the university’s dedication to enhancing its academic programs and fostering beneficial partnerships for both the institution and the state.
