On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the vibrant Federal Polytechnic Nekede community converged at the 1000 Capacity Auditorium for the 3rd General Assembly under the dynamic leadership of Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Igbokwe. This gathering served as a vital forum where unions engaged directly with the administration, raising questions and offering heartfelt appreciation for the Rector’s remarkable strides within her first four months in office.
Dr. Igbokwe opened the assembly with a gracious nod to the unwavering loyalty of the FedPolyNek community, especially evident during the recent celebration of her 100 days in office in January 2025. She took the occasion to introduce two pivotal appointees—Mr. Stanley Ugochukwu Njoku, the newly appointed Registrar, and Mrs. Adanne Chinyere Ojiuko, the new Bursar—both of whom were greeted with enthusiastic applause.

The session buzzed with lively exchanges, culminating in the Rector’s unveiling of key resolutions and updates that underscored her administration’s dedication to progress and transparency. Below are the bold initiatives and positions embraced by the Federal Polytechnic Nekede community, as articulated by Dr. Igbokwe:
1. Sustained Revenue Growth: The institution’s Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) efforts are flourishing with fresh investments. The Fish Farm now thrives with 20,000 fingerlings, the Poultry Farm is poised to launch next week, and the FedPolyNek Printing Press will begin operations in March 2025, underpinned by a commission-based partnership model.
2. CBT-Based Assessments: The fully operational Computer-Based Test (CBT) system now requires students to return to campus earlier, replacing the former habit of arriving mere weeks before exams. Success now hinges on CBT participation, coursework, and consistent attendance.
3. Lecturer Accountability: A zero-tolerance policy targets lecturers delivering rushed or unscheduled “marathon” lectures, with disciplinary measures and monitoring systems already in place.
4. Clock-In Discipline: Clock-in machines, installed by a contracted consultant, will soon tie attendance to salaries, fostering diligence and bolstering IGR.
5. Campus Upgrades: Infrastructure enhancements are advancing, including the imminent installation of three to four transformers at key locations to improve electricity supply.
6. Prompt Result Submission: The administration lauded lecturers for timely result submissions to the Academic Board, though defaulters will face intensified scrutiny and documented queries.
7. Student Mobilization: Parents hailed the institution’s success in mobilizing over 50,000 students, stranded for nearly three years post-graduation, into the NYSC programme.
8. HND PharmTech Program Milestone: The assembly rejoiced at the approval of the Pharmaceutical Technology HND program’s continuation. The Rector intended to commend the Head of Department, though her absence—mirroring her no-show at the last Academic Board meeting—prevented this recognition.
9. Expanded Admissions (Increased Carrying Capacity): FedPolyek’s carrying capacity has soared to 15,000 students, up from JAMB’s initial 3,500 and later 7,500. This is as approved by NBTE. Matriculation is deferred to integrate newly admitted students. Furthermore the matriculation ceremony is now mandatory for all students.
10. Concessionary Admissions: A one-week window has opened for staff wards, relatives, and friends to secure concessionary admissions. Applications are expected immediately.
11. Campus Order: Hawking in classrooms and across campus is banned, with inspecting units like SERVICOM empowered to enforce compliance—sales are now confined to designated areas like the Photo Stand.
12. Staff Welfare: Staff welfare remains paramount, with batch payments of staff claims, clearing backlogs as IGR grows. Plans to repair institutional buses for affordable transport are also in motion.
13. IT Defense: IT defense exercises are now free, ensuring all students benefit equally. All amount already collected must be return to the students forthwith.
14. Student Living: Hostel renovations progress, boasting fully installed internet facilities to support academic research and enhance learning. Functional toilet facilities have been restored maintained via a modest ₦50 fee as service charge.
15. Textbook Oversight: Lecturers withholding paid textbooks from students will face the disciplinary panel with consequences assured.
16. Logbook Concerns: The Rector lamented the supposed unavailability of logbooks to students despite the production of same, pinning it on the underperforming Directorate of TEDC, whose absent director drew her ire.
17. Medical Supplies: On drug shortages, Dr. Igbokwe cited funding limits, restricting procurement to essentials recommended by the Chief Medical Director, and sought community patience.
18. Restored Imprest: Departmental imprest is reinstated, though misuse will trigger its withdrawal.
19. Rice Palliative Delay: The Federal Government’s promised rice palliative remains undelivered despite persistent efforts. The Registrar, backed by a Special Task Force, is collaborating with the EFCC, ICPC, and others to expedite it.
20. Salary Resolution: Salary shortfalls are being tackled with renewed vigor to secure timely funding and ensure staff get what they are due and on schedule.
21. Digital Integration and Access for Students: A software system for remote access of results by students is underway, slated for completion by the next session, God willing.

A Leadership Marked by Devotion and Service :

The Rector’s Media Crew noted that Dr. Igbokwe—fondly called the “Daughter of Grace”—stood tirelessly for over 1 hour and 15 minutes, captivating the assembly. During a solemn moment, she remained on her feet for nearly 70 minutes in prayerful reverence. She demonstrated deep commitment to both spiritual fortitude and academic Leadership.

Leadership, truly, is a mantle borne by those who serve with selfless devotion. It’s also a calling for those prepared to serve , and Dr. (Mrs.) Igbokwe continues to embody this Principle.

As a community, let us remain steadfast in lifting our Rector in Prayers for divine wisdom, strength and guidance as she leads Fedpolynek to greater heights.

Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters