The management of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Kogi State, has announced that class attendance is now compulsory for all students, warning that anyone who fails to meet the minimum attendance requirement will not be allowed to sit for university examinations.
The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, made this known during the university’s 14th matriculation ceremony, where over 9,000 newly admitted students were formally welcomed into the institution.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, any student who records less than 75 percent attendance in lectures will be automatically disqualified from participating in semester examinations.
He stressed that attendance is no longer optional, describing regular class participation as a core requirement for academic success and institutional discipline.
“Attendance Is Mandatory” — VC
Professor Akinwumi told students that the university is determined to raise academic standards and promote a culture of seriousness, commitment, and excellence.
“Class attendance is not optional; it is mandatory. Any student with less than 75 percent attendance will not be eligible to sit for examinations,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
He urged students to remain focused on their academic goals and avoid what he described as a careless approach to university life.
The VC further cautioned students against becoming what he termed “No Future Ambition” (NFA) students, encouraging them to set clear goals and pursue their education with discipline and dedication.
Move to Curb Exam Malpractice and Indiscipline
University authorities explained that the policy is part of broader efforts to curb examination malpractice, absenteeism, and declining academic engagement among students.
The management also reiterated its zero tolerance for examination misconduct, warning that any student found guilty of malpractice would face stiff sanctions in line with university regulations.
In addition to attendance enforcement, the university warned against cultism, drug abuse, indecent dressing, and other social vices, stating that such behaviours have no place in the institution.
Digital Monitoring and Enforcement
Sources within the university confirmed that lecture attendance will be closely monitored through departmental records and digital tracking systems to ensure compliance.
Students who fail to meet the required attendance threshold may be required to repeat affected courses or defer examinations until they meet the necessary academic conditions.
Part of Wider Academic Reforms
The attendance policy is also seen as part of wider reforms in Kogi State’s tertiary education sector aimed at improving academic quality and student discipline.
Education stakeholders have described the move as a step toward strengthening learning outcomes and ensuring that students fully participate in academic activities.
The university management advised all students to take the policy seriously, warning that appeals would not be entertained once attendance records fall below the approved benchmark.
Officials said further guidelines would be issued to faculties and departments to ensure uniform enforcement across the institution.