Gemade Commissions Monument at Federal Polytechnic Oko, Commends Awuzie’s Transformation Drive
By Nkiru Anakor
The Chairman of the 12th Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Senator Dr. Barnabas Gemade, has commissioned a newly constructed monument at the institution’s main entrance. The commissioning, held on Sept. 4, marked the completion of a project described as a significant addition to the polytechnic’s physical identity and institutional environment.
Speaking at the ceremony, Senator Gemade said the monument had become a notable landmark of the institution, reflecting its vision, mission and commitment to sustained growth and academic excellence. He disclosed that the project was funded through the Polytechnic’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) under the leadership of the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie.
According to him, the initiative was part of the administration’s broader efforts to improve the physical environment of the Polytechnic, strengthen its infrastructure and reinforce a distinctive institutional identity. Represented at the event by a member of the Governing Council, Comrade Chibuzo Asomugha, Sen. Gemade congratulated the Rector, management, staff and students on the successful completion of the project.
He commended Dr. Awuzie for her commitment to the development and advancement of the institution, assuring her of the governing council’s continued support for programmes and initiatives aimed at repositioning the Polytechnic for greater achievements. The council chairman stressed that the monument represented more than a physical structure, describing it as a symbol of the polytechnic’s vision, mission, growth and enduring commitment to excellence.
In her remarks, the rector expressed appreciation to the staff and students for their support, cooperation and commitment to the administration’s development efforts. Dr. Awuzie said her administration had, within a relatively short period, embarked on a comprehensive transformation programme covering key areas such as infrastructure, academic development, student welfare, security, enterprise development and the rehabilitation of abandoned or moribund facilities.
She disclosed that the Polytechnic’s Water Factory and Bakery had been successfully revived and restored to productive use, strengthening the institution’s revenue-generating capacity. The rector also announced the resuscitation of the Polytechnic Printing Press, alongside the construction of a Staff Sports Club and Guest House aimed at improving staff welfare and enhancing institutional hospitality.
She further identified the construction of the Geological Technology Department Building as another major infrastructural project undertaken by her administration. According to her, work is also ongoing on the construction of a Medical Centre at the Ufuma Campus, which is expected to improve healthcare delivery and provide easier access to medical services for members of the polytechnic community.
Dr. Awuzie added that her administration had reduced school fees and introduced other initiatives aimed at improving teaching and learning, strengthening student welfare and creating a more conducive environment for academic activities across the institution.
