By Peace temisan Osemwegie
A new management team has been appointed for the Edo State College of Agriculture Iguoriakhi. On March 21, 2023, residents of Iguoriakhi community were elated as the Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, graced their presence and delivered promising news about the reopening of the institution during his visit.
Assuring the community of the government’s unwavering commitment to their welfare, Mr Obaseki announced that the newly rebuilt College of Agric would commence operations in September 2023, marking a significant milestone in the state’s pursuit of academic excellence and agricultural transformation.
To ensure a seamless transition and elevate the institution to international standards, on Tuesday, June 2, 2023, the members of the new management team of the college received their letters of appointment after a meticulous recruitment exercise was conducted through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
The Functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Sunday Erhunmwonsere, presented the appointment letters to the distinguished members of the newly appointed College of Agriculture Iguorhiakhi management team.
Leading the college with expertise and vision is Dr Kess Asikhia, a renowned scholar in the field, who has been appointed as Provost. Dr Asikhia’s distinguished career as the Deputy Rector (Academics) and a Chief Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the esteemed Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, highlights his profound knowledge and commitment to academic excellence. Holding a Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng) from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, a Masters in Production Engineering from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), and a PhD in Human-Centered Design from Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom, Asikhia brings a wealth of expertise to propel the college to new heights.
Supporting Dr Asikhia in overseeing the college’s operations is Mr Monday I. Owie, who assumes the role of Registrar. With a solid educational background, Mr Owie holds a National Certificate in Education (NCE) from the Institute of Continuing Education, Benin City, a Bachelor’s Degree in Education Adult Education from the esteemed University of Benin (UNIBEN), and a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) from the same institution. His commitment to administrative excellence and fostering a conducive learning environment will undoubtedly contribute to the college’s success.
The esteemed institution also welcomes Mr Famous Osariemen Odigie as the Deputy Bursar, bringing his distinguished expertise in financial management and accountability to the forefront. A fellow at the prestigious Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Odigie holds an ND in Accounting from Auchi Polytechnic, a BSc in Accounting, and an MSc in Banking and Finance from the esteemed University of Benin (UNIBEN). His wealth of experience will undoubtedly ensure prudent financial practices within the college.
Finally, overseeing the college’s invaluable knowledge resources as the College Librarian is Mr Edward Omorogbe Eguavoen, an erudite scholar with extensive academic accomplishments. Eguavoen holds a B.Ed, MLS, and PhD from the prestigious University of Ibadan, further exemplifying the college’s commitment to scholarly excellence and intellectual growth.
The appointment of this world-class management team signifies the Edo State Government’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and ensuring that the College of Agric Iguorhiakhi becomes a regional centre of agricultural knowledge and innovation. Their collective expertise, coupled with the state’s investment in infrastructure and resources, will propel the institution to the forefront of agricultural education, earning recognition and admiration at all levels.
The tenure of the new management team will take effect from July 1, 2023.
As the September deadline draws near, anticipation builds among potential students, faculty, stakeholders and especially the Iguorhiakhi community as they eagerly await the commencement of activities at the College of Agriculture.
