By: Olufadi Balarabe Ayuba
I have come across many leaders in academic institutions, each with their unique approach to leadership and innovation. But none has struck me more than the “Project Rector” of Kwara State Polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad. His leadership is one that not only puzzles but also inspires. Since assuming the role of Rector in 2019, his transformative efforts at Kwara State Polytechnic have become a model of how to balance infrastructure development with academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity.
Engr. Dr. Muhammad is not just a leader in title; he is a leader by example. Often seen personally supervising projects around the polytechnic campus, he earned the title of “Project Rector” for his unwavering commitment to enhancing the polytechnic’s infrastructure. His meticulous attention to the quality of education, alongside his relentless push for modern facilities and technology integration, has elevated Kwara State Polytechnic to one of the most reputable institutions in Nigeria.
The success of Engr. Dr. Muhammad’s administration owes much to the steadfast support of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The Governor’s tenure, which began in 2019, has seen significant attention to education and the development of Kwara State’s institutions. His administration provided the enabling environment for Engr. Dr. Muhammad to pursue his visionary projects, from approving budget allocations to pushing forward reforms in education.
Without this robust backing from the Governor, much of what has been achieved under Engr. Dr. Muhammad’s leadership may not have been possible. The Governor’s decision to appoint Dr. Muhammad as Rector and his subsequent support for the polytechnic’s growth exemplify the power of synergy between political leadership and academic administration. Together, they have transformed Kwara State Polytechnic into a beacon of modern education.
One of the first and most visible changes that Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad introduced was the comprehensive renovation of the Old IOT Building. This project, initiated in 2020, transformed the aging structure into a modern facility with state-of-the-art lecture halls, laboratories, workshops, and offices. The revitalized building has become a center for learning and research, providing students with a conducive environment that fosters both academic and personal growth.
This was just one of many infrastructure projects undertaken by the Rector. His philosophy was simple: A good learning environment is crucial to academic success. It is no wonder then that his tenure is marked by numerous building projects aimed at improving the polytechnic’s facilities. His efforts also included expanding and upgrading the institution’s technological infrastructure, which is essential for the polytechnic’s growing focus on digital learning and research.
Perhaps one of the most ambitious projects under Engr. Dr. Muhammad’s leadership is the 33KV power project, also known as the “Light-up Kwara Poly Project.” Completed in 2022, this project has significantly improved the polytechnic’s electricity supply, ensuring a steady and reliable power source for the institution’s operations.
For an institution that relies on electricity for labs, workshops, and other essential academic functions, this project has been nothing short of transformative. It is no surprise that both students and staff alike have hailed the completion of this project as one of the highlights of Dr. Muhammad’s leadership.
Moreover, this project has had a ripple effect, benefiting not only the polytechnic but also the surrounding community, which now enjoys more reliable power supply. This initiative exemplifies the Rector’s belief in not just improving the polytechnic itself, but also giving back to the larger community.
Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad’s focus was not limited to physical infrastructure; he also revolutionized the academic structure of Kwara State Polytechnic. One of his most notable innovations was the introduction of the Centralized Online Research Assessment System in 2021. This initiative has digitized the polytechnic’s research processes, making them more efficient and accessible.
Through this system, research submissions, assessments, and peer reviews are now handled digitally, reducing bottlenecks and increasing the quality and pace of academic work. It has also paved the way for the polytechnic to engage more actively in research and development, encouraging both staff and students to contribute to the institution’s growing body of knowledge.
This forward-thinking approach underscores Engr. Dr. Muhammad’s belief in the power of technology to enhance academic performance. Under his leadership, the polytechnic has embraced digital tools, making it easier for both students and staff to engage with research and academic programs.
Another defining aspect of Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad’s leadership is his focus on producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also equipped with practical skills for the workforce. During the 29th Convocation Ceremony in 2022, he emphasized the importance of vocational and entrepreneurial skills in combating unemployment. His vision is to ensure that graduates leave the polytechnic with the tools they need to thrive in Nigeria’s competitive job market.
This commitment to skills development is one of the reasons Kwara State Polytechnic stands out among Nigeria’s polytechnics. The polytechnic’s curriculum now places significant emphasis on hands-on training and entrepreneurship, giving students the confidence and ability to become job creators, rather than job seekers.
Through partnerships with industries and other vocational training programs, students at Kwara State Polytechnic are exposed to real-world experiences that prepare them for life after graduation. This approach not only boosts the employability of graduates but also aligns with Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision for the state’s education system—one that produces graduates capable of driving the state’s economic development.
Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad has also been a champion of inclusivity and fairness within Kwara State Polytechnic. One of the narratives he sought to change from the very start of his tenure was the marginalization of part-time lecturers. Unlike many institutions where part-time staff are often overlooked, Dr. Muhammad made it a priority to ensure that all lecturers, regardless of their employment status, were treated with respect and given equal opportunities for professional development.
By promoting an environment of inclusion and support, he has cultivated a more collaborative and motivated workforce. This, in turn, has contributed to the overall success of the polytechnic, as both full-time and part-time staff are now able to contribute meaningfully to the institution’s academic growth.
As Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad continues his journey as the Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, his legacy is one of excellence, innovation, and transformative leadership. His hands-on approach to leadership, coupled with the unwavering support of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has created an institution that is now a beacon of higher education in Nigeria.
Early this month, the Rector launched agriculture development in supporting Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq’s efforts in ensuring food security and sustainability in the state, the farm project is also meant to expose the students to the practical aspect of their field of study. It’s another step used as a means of checking encroachment on its land, it also afforded the institution an opportunity to demonstrate its expertise in agricultural production. Out of the 129 bags of maize from the first batch of harvest, two bags have been set aside for processing into products such as custard, semovita, maize flour.
The numerous projects initiated under his leadership—from the renovation of the Old IOT Building to the completion of the 33KV power project—are testaments to his commitment to creating an environment conducive to learning and research. More importantly, his focus on skill development and inclusivity has ensured that Kwara State Polytechnic is producing graduates ready to make meaningful contributions to society.
As the institution moves forward, one can only imagine the greater heights it will reach under the continued leadership of Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammad, a leader whose vision and impact have truly reshaped Kwara State Polytechnic for the better. His journey is not just about the projects completed; it’s about the lasting influence he leaves on the students, staff, and the larger community.
