Nigeria-Korea Institute Secures NBTE Accreditation, Records 500% Growth in Student Enrollment

The Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute of Vocational and Advanced Technology (NKFI) in Lokoja, Kogi State, has achieved full accreditation for all its academic programmes from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

The Rector of the institute, Charles Williams, announced the development on Sunday in Lokoja, noting that the accreditation marks a significant milestone in the institution’s pursuit of excellence in vocational and technical education.

According to Williams, the accredited courses include Automotive Mechatronics, Welding and Fabrication, Electrical/Electronic Technology, and Computer Software Engineering. He revealed that the institute has recorded a remarkable 500% increase in student enrollment within the last three years.

Enrollment Growth and Academic Expansion

Williams stated that when he assumed office in September 2022, the institute had only about 40 students. However, as of September 2025, the figure had surged to over 900 students — a testament to the institution’s growing reputation for quality technical education and industry-relevant training.

“The NKFI recorded a 500 per cent increase in student enrollment, from 40 students in September 2022 to over 900 in September 2025,” he said.

He further disclosed that the institute has introduced new academic programmes to align with global technological trends. These include Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Robotics, alongside the launch of a distance learning initiative designed to provide flexible study options for remote learners.

Major Achievements and Institutional Development

The Rector highlighted several key achievements under his leadership, including:

• Over 200% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
• Revamped infrastructure and improved campus security.
• Launch of the institute’s official website and online academic portal.
• Establishment of new directorates such as Student Services and Academic Planning.

Williams added that NKFI has also signed more than 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with local and international institutions to promote research, technical collaboration, and resource sharing.

Partner institutions include Kogi State Polytechnic, Confluence University of Science and Technology, and the African Development Study Centre. These partnerships are aimed at boosting research, innovation, and fabrication projects within the institute.

Youth Empowerment and Skill Development Initiatives

As part of its contribution to youth empowerment in Kogi State, the institute has trained more than 250 young people in various vocational trades through the Kogi Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Programme. Beneficiaries were provided with free starter packs to help them begin their entrepreneurial journey.

Williams explained that NKFI’s approach to vocational education emphasizes hands-on learning, technical innovation, and entrepreneurship — preparing graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers.

Future Plans and Institutional Vision

Looking ahead, the Rector revealed that the institute has secured a permanent site and plans to establish a part-time study center in Obajana, where the Dangote Cement factory is located.

He said NKFI has developed strategic policy documents, including an Academic and Strategic Master Plan (Vision 2030), which will guide the institute’s long-term development and position it as a center of excellence in vocational and advanced technology education.

Williams expressed appreciation to the Korean Government for its continuous support in training students and staff through various capacity-building and exchange programs. He emphasized that these collaborations are in line with the institute’s mission to promote skill acquisition, innovation, and sustainable development.

Government Support and Institutional Impact

The Rector also commended former Governor Yahaya Bello for appointing him to lead the institution, and lauded the current Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his dedication to advancing technical education in Kogi State.

He noted that the state government’s consistent investment in vocational training is helping to bridge the gap between education and industry needs, empowering young Nigerians with practical skills to thrive in today’s competitive economy.

“Our mission at the Nigeria-Korea Friendship Institute is to equip young people with globally relevant technical skills,” Williams said. “With continued government and international support, we are confident of producing a new generation of innovators and problem solvers.”

The institute, which was established through a partnership between the governments of Nigeria and South Korea, continues to play a vital role in promoting advanced technical education and fostering technology-driven growth across the country.