History and Overview of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara

 
The Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, is a state-owned institution strategically established to advance scientific, technological, and engineering education in Kogi State and Nigeria at large. Founded in 2020, CUSTECH has quickly emerged as a hub for innovation, academic excellence, and practical research.

Located in Osara, in Adavi Local Government Area, the university lies along the Okene–Lokoja–Abuja Expressway, about 40 kilometers from Lokoja and 25 kilometers from Okene. This location was intentionally selected to provide easy accessibility for both students and staff while serving as a regional academic epicenter.

##Official Website and Digital Presence
CUSTECH maintains an official website at https://custech.edu.ng/, which serves as the primary online portal for students, prospective applicants, and stakeholders. The site contains vital information including academic programs, admission procedures, campus news, updates from the Vice-Chancellor's office, and various administrative services. It is designed to enhance transparency, foster communication, and support digital learning services.

##Brief History
The university was formally established on August 20, 2020, by the Kogi State Government under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello. The move followed the successful passage of a bill by the Kogi State House of Assembly aimed at expanding educational opportunities for youths, particularly in science and technology disciplines.

The creation of CUSTECH was motivated by a significant gap in tertiary admission for Kogi indigenes in scientific fields. The government envisioned a homegrown solution that would increase enrollment capacity, reduce educational migration, and position Kogi State as a player in Nigeria’s technology-driven future.

##Mission, Vision, and Core Values
CUSTECH was established with a clear focus on producing highly skilled graduates equipped for real-world problem-solving, innovation, and leadership in the science and technology sectors.

Vision: To become a reputable, world-class institution known for excellence in science, technology, and engineering education.

Mission: To create a conducive environment for research, learning, and intellectual development, while nurturing professionals capable of addressing societal challenges.

Core Values: The university is guided by the principles of integrity, excellence, accountability, innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity.

These values shape both the administrative and academic culture at the university.

##Academic Structure and Program Development
Since its inception, CUSTECH has rapidly expanded its academic offerings. The university began with core science and technology disciplines and has progressively added new programs in response to growing demand.

In 2024, the National Universities Commission (NUC) granted full accreditation to the university's pioneer academic programs, which include:

Biochemistry

Microbiology

Chemistry

Biology

Physics

Mathematics

Statistics

Computer Science

Cyber Security

Software Engineering

Information Technology

Additionally, the NUC approved several education-focused programs such as:

Computer Science Education

Physics Education

Chemistry Education

Mathematics Education

Library and Information Science

Technology Education

Geography Education

In a significant expansion, six new programs were approved in early 2024:

MBBS – Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery

DPT – Doctor of Physiotherapy

B. Rad. – Bachelor in Radiography

B. Agric. – Bachelor in Agriculture

B. Eng. – Agricultural Engineering

LLB – Bachelor of Law


This broad and interdisciplinary approach allows CUSTECH to cater to a wider range of students while maintaining its emphasis on technology and applied sciences.

##Leadership and Administrative Framework
The leadership of CUSTECH has played a vital role in its development and positioning as a reputable institution. The founding Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salawu Sadiku, served from 2020 to 2023 and was instrumental in setting up the university’s initial academic and administrative frameworks.

In December 2023, Professor Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu was appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor. A distinguished scholar in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, Prof. Salawu brings a wealth of academic and technical expertise. He was previously a key member of both the Technical Committee and Implementation Committee that oversaw the university’s foundational stages.

Under his leadership, CUSTECH is poised to deepen its academic impact, improve infrastructure, and foster strategic partnerships.