Overview and History of Salem University

 
Salem University, located in Lokoja, the capital city of Kogi State, Nigeria, is one of the prominent private universities in the country known for its vision of raising leaders who are intellectually sound, morally upright, and spiritually balanced. Established in 2007, the institution was founded with a mandate to provide quality education in a serene and godly environment. Over the years, Salem University has become a destination for students across Nigeria and beyond, offering a diverse range of programs designed to equip graduates with both professional and leadership skills.

The university is deeply committed to nurturing students into becoming global change agents. Unlike many institutions that focus solely on academic achievements, Salem University integrates character formation, spiritual development, and leadership skills into its curriculum, ensuring that graduates are not just employable but also capable of creating opportunities and solutions in society. With an emphasis on discipline and innovation, the university has steadily built a reputation as a hub for academic excellence and leadership training.

##Official Website
The official website of Salem University is www.salemuniversity.edu.ng. Through the website, prospective students, parents, and stakeholders can access updated information on admissions, academic programs, events, and university policies.

##Motto
The motto of Salem University is "Raising Global Leaders." This reflects the institution’s commitment to producing graduates who are not just academically competent but also equipped with the moral and spiritual foundation to influence the world positively.

##Founder
Salem University was founded by Archbishop Sam Amaga, the presiding archbishop of Foundation Faith Church Worldwide and president of Salem International Christian Centre. He is a renowned Christian leader, author, and educationist who has dedicated his life to raising transformational leaders across different spheres of life.

##History
The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Universities Commission (NUC), granted Salem University its operational license in 2007, making it one of the new generation private universities established during that period. From its inception, the university was envisioned as an institution that would integrate academic excellence with moral and spiritual discipline.

Located in Lokoja, a city of historical importance in Nigeria, Salem University began with a modest number of students but has since grown into a fully developed institution offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university’s founders placed a high premium on leadership training, entrepreneurship, and character development, aiming to address the gap between academic qualifications and practical societal impact.

Over the years, Salem University has made significant progress in expanding its academic faculties, upgrading its facilities, and gaining recognition from relevant authorities. The institution continues to attract students from various cultural and religious backgrounds, while maintaining its Christian ethos as a guiding principle in shaping the lives of its students.

##Chancellor
The Chancellor of Salem University is Archbishop Sam Amaga, the founder of the institution. As a visionary leader, he has played a central role in shaping the mission and policies of the university. Archbishop Amaga has authored numerous books and remains a strong advocate for youth empowerment through education. His leadership continues to drive the university’s vision of raising global leaders.

##Vice Chancellor
The current Vice Chancellor of Salem University is Professor Alewo Johnson-Akubo. He is an accomplished academic with years of experience in teaching, research, and university administration. Under his leadership, the university has made significant strides in academic development, infrastructural growth, and international collaboration. Professor Johnson-Akubo is dedicated to promoting the institution’s vision and ensuring that it continues to meet global standards.

##Accreditation and Recognition
Salem University is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria, which approves its various academic programs. The university also enjoys recognition from professional bodies such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for its relevant programs. These accreditations guarantee that graduates of the institution can compete favorably both locally and internationally.

##Academic Structure and Facilities
Salem University boasts a well-structured academic system comprising several colleges and faculties that cover a broad spectrum of disciplines. Some of the academic divisions include:

College of Natural and Applied Sciences – offering courses in Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Physics, and Mathematics.

College of Management and Social Sciences – offering programs in Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, and Mass Communication.

College of Law – preparing students for legal practice with a strong emphasis on ethics and justice.

College of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) – equipping students with modern technological skills in computer science and information systems.

College of Humanities – focusing on languages, philosophy, and related disciplines.

School of Postgraduate Studies – offering master’s and doctoral programs in selected fields.

The university also provides state-of-the-art facilities, including ICT laboratories, science laboratories, a modern library, student hostels, sports facilities, and a serene campus environment conducive for learning and character development.

##Campus Life and Facilities
Campus life at Salem University is designed to be holistic and enriching. The institution offers a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, cultural events, entrepreneurship training, and spiritual programs that foster all-round development. Students live in well-organized hostels with adequate security and welfare services. The university places a strong emphasis on discipline, dress codes, and character building, ensuring that students graduate not only as professionals but also as responsible citizens and leaders.

##Notable Alumni
Since its establishment, Salem University has produced several graduates who are making their mark in various sectors. Some notable alumni include:

Josephine Okojie – Journalist and Development Advocate.

Samuel Alade – Business Consultant and Entrepreneur.

Grace Iwuchukwu – ICT Specialist and Digital Innovator.

David Ocheme – Legal Practitioner.