Oko Poly Rector Seeks FG Intervention on Erosion, Security, Roads
By Emmanuel Chigbata
The Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Awuzie, has appealed to the Federal Government for urgent intervention in addressing erosion, security and internal road challenges affecting the institution.
Dr. Awuzie made the appeal in her welcome address during the commissioning of the TETFUND funded ICT Experience Centre under the Renewed Hope Initiative at the Polytechnic.
She identified erosion as a major threat to the institution, noting that the Polytechnic’s location in an erosion prone area has exposed some of its infrastructure to increasing damage.
The Rector also called for adequate perimeter fencing of the Polytechnic’s three campuses in Oko, Ufuma and Atani to strengthen security, regulate access and protect students, staff and institutional facilities.
She further appealed for the rehabilitation of the institution’s internal road network, stressing that functional roads are essential for accessibility, movement, emergency response and the smooth running of academic and administrative activities.
Dr. Awuzie described the newly commissioned ICT Experience Centre as a significant intervention that would provide students with access to digital skills, technology, innovation, educational resources, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
She said the facility would prepare students to compete in the emerging digital economy while promoting digital inclusion and innovation and contributing to efforts to reduce youth unemployment.
The Rector commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her commitment to women and youth development through the Renewed Hope Initiative, describing the ICT Centre as a practical demonstration of the initiative’s focus on equipping young Nigerians with relevant skills and opportunities.
The event was attended by the traditional ruler of Oko, Igwe Laz Ekwueme, Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of the Polytechnic, Barrister Fidelis Oduah, Chief Lecturer, Dr. Onyeka Uwakwe, among others.
