The Digital Rector: How Arc. Henry Ojobo is transforming Benue State Polytechnic

When Arc. Dr. Henry Ojobo assumed duty as the Rector of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, expectations were high. Barely months into his tenure, it is evident that the Ai-Ede-born academic is not just meeting those expectations — he is surpassing them.

Fondly called the “Digital Rector”, Dr. Ojobo is giving BenuePoly a new face, blending discipline, innovation and vision with a passion for students’ welfare and academic excellence.

One of his first initiatives was to digitalise key administrative and academic processes. From online results to digital fee payments, Ojobo has reduced forgery, eliminated stress for students, and enhanced efficiency.
According to him, “the world is moving very fast technologically, and BenPoly cannot afford to be left behind in the global academic space.”

He has also introduced new courses, repositioned directorates, and emphasized merit, transparency, and discipline among staff and students — raising the institution’s academic standards to align with global best practices.

Within weeks of resuming office, Dr. Ojobo embarked on infrastructural renewal. Working closely with the Director of Works, Engr. Gabriel Attah, his administration has:

Reactivated boreholes to restore clean water supply.

Revived toilet facilities to improve hygiene standards.

Restored electrical systems for safer learning and working environments.

Reconstructed collapsed perimeter fences for tighter security.

Installed speed bumps at the school gate to enhance safety.

Launched a campus-wide clean-up exercise using recovered sanitation equipment.

Beyond repairs, Ojobo has a vision for a greener Polytechnic. Over 1,000 trees have been planted, marking the beginning of an environmental sustainability drive.

Dr. Ojobo’s leadership style prioritises students. He has fostered mentorship programs, extracurricular activities, and support services that give students a sense of belonging. He has also opened collaborations with local industries to provide internships, job training, and career opportunities.

In his first address to fresh students, he charged them to embrace discipline, shun cultism, and respect the host community of Ugbokolo. His philosophy is simple: build graduates who are resilient, morally upright, and future-ready.

The opening of a new gate at the Otukpo–Enugu expressway is another practical intervention. It promises to ease traffic congestion, improve transportation efficiency, and boost the local economy.

For the Ai-Ede community, Ojobo’s rise is no surprise. Son of the late Hon. Augustine Ojobo (Oyame 1), the first Executive Chairman of Ogbadibo LGA, Henry is seen as living proof that “a lion does not breed a goat.”
His father laid the foundation for a modern Ogbadibo; today, Henry is replicating — and exceeding, such strides in BenPoly.

In a statement, the Ai-Ede Community described his appointment as “a source of pride and inspiration to the entire Ogbadibo nation”, while also thanking Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia for finding him worthy of the role. 

As part of his commitment to youth empowerment, Dr. Ojobo hosted the Dakinda Rector’s Cup, a football competition that brought together students and young people from across the Polytechnic. The tournament not only fostered unity and camaraderie but also created a platform for discovering and nurturing sporting talents.

From digitalisation to infrastructural renewal, student empowerment to environmental sustainability, Dr. Henry Ojobo is redefining leadership at Benue State Polytechnic. His vision is clear: to make the institution a model of academic excellence, innovation, and character development in Nigeria.

If the early months are anything to go by, BenPoly’s future is indeed bright under the watch of the Digital Rector.