Col. Olalekan Bamiteko formally assumed office as the 12th Rector of the Nigerian Army College of Environmental Science and Technology (NACEST), Makurdi.
This was made known in a statement issued by the institution’s acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Nkuma Mba, on Friday in Makurdi.
According to Mba, the handing and taking over ceremony is done, and it marks a significant transition designed to consolidate academic excellence and advance staff welfare in the military-owned tertiary institution.
He said that in his inaugural address, Bamiteko thanked God for His guidance and expressed deep appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for entrusting him with the leadership of NACEST, pledging to uphold the confidence reposed in him.
The acting assistant director further said that the new rector stressed that under his leadership, NACEST would place strong emphasis on students’ welfare, staff development, and improved institutional standards.
Mba said that the rector underscored the need for a harmonious working environment, urging members of management to avoid unhealthy rivalries and remain focused on enhancing academic quality.
The acting assistant director quoted Bamiteko as paying glowing tribute to his predecessor, Brig.-Gen. Solomon Inuwa, describing him as a committed leader whose positive legacies he intended to sustain and build upon.
He also said that the rector commended the College Registrar, Lt Col. Umar Ja’afaru, for diligently overseeing the institution’s affairs prior to his arrival.
He disclosed that until the appointment of Bamiteko as rector, he served as Commandant, Command Secondary School, Ipaja, Lagos, a position he held with distinction.
