ASUP Federal Polytechnic Ohodo Chapter Commends Management, Seeks Improved Staff Welfare and Institutional Support

The leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Federal Polytechnic Ohodo Chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to industrial harmony and institutional growth following a solidarity and courtesy visit to the management of the Polytechnic.

The visit, which took place on May 19, 2026, at the Rector’s Office, provided an opportunity for both the union and management to discuss staff welfare, academic development, infrastructural improvement, and strategies for sustaining progress within the institution.

Presenting a communiqué on behalf of the union, the Chairman of ASUP FEDPOD Chapter, Dr. Awarajih Uwaezuoke, commended the Polytechnic management for supporting Institutional Based Research (IBR), staff participation in conferences and workshops, as well as training and capacity-building programmes aimed at improving academic standards and professional development.

He also praised the inclusion of the union in key standing committees of the institution, noting that the move has strengthened participatory governance and contributed positively to the growth and stability of the Polytechnic.

Despite acknowledging the progress recorded by the current administration, the union appealed for urgent attention to several issues affecting staff welfare and the smooth operation of academic activities within the institution.

Among the concerns raised were the improper placement of some staff members by the previous administration, payment of the outstanding 28-day relocation allowance, improved functionality of laboratories and equipment, timely provision of teaching materials, allocation of land to the union, access to fabrication grants for technologists and engineers, and improved adherence to the academic calendar with effective communication mechanisms.

The union also requested management support for a proposed sports competition designed to strengthen interaction and unity among staff and students.

Responding to the concerns, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ohodo, Dr. Ediri Emmanuel Agada, assured the union of management’s continued willingness to engage constructively in the interest of institutional development and staff welfare.

According to the Rector, some of the issues highlighted by the union were already receiving management attention, particularly matters relating to staff welfare and infrastructural improvement.

Addressing the issue of the outstanding 28-day relocation allowance, Dr. Agada explained that management was not opposed to the payment but noted that such financial obligations require proper budgetary allocation and the availability of funds through the appropriate government channels.

On infrastructure and academic facilities, the Rector acknowledged the need to further improve laboratories, workshops, and related equipment despite the institution’s existing modern facilities. He disclosed that approvals had already been granted for the procurement of additional teaching and practical materials to support academic activities.

The Rector also hinted at management’s readiness to allocate a portion of land within the campus for ASUP’s use and pledged support for sporting activities and competitions within the Polytechnic community.

Other principal officers of the institution also expressed support for continued collaboration between management and the union.

Speaking on the academic calendar, the Deputy Rector, Dr. Cornelius O. Ogayi, explained that certain factors, including admission processes and the need for Academic Board approvals, sometimes influence scheduling decisions within the institution.

Representing the Registrar, Dr. Obini Onuchukwu, the Deputy Registrar, Mrs. Ifeanyi Patricia Ozobu, appreciated the union for the thoughtful visit and commended members for their gifts presented to the institution’s principal officers.

The Bursar, Mrs. Umolaojo Angela Sani, addressed concerns relating to funding and financial obligations, explaining that some challenges were connected to funding realities and government procedures. She, however, reassured staff members that efforts were ongoing to ensure all legitimate entitlements are properly processed and secured.

Also speaking, the Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Albert Obiora Elejene, commended the ASUP leadership for its constructive presentation and called for sustained mutual understanding and cordial relations between management and staff members.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with both the Polytechnic management and the ASUP FEDPOD Chapter reaffirming their shared commitment to cooperation, mutual respect, and the continuous advancement of the institution.

One of the major highlights of the visit was the presentation of framed portrait gifts and other items by the ASUP delegation to the Rector and other principal officers of the Polytechnic.