Federal Polytechnic Ado vs Ekiti State Polytechnic: Which Is Better for ND & HND Students? (FPA vs EKSPOLY Review)

Choosing the right polytechnic in Nigeria can shape your career path and future income. If you are planning to apply for admission into a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) and are comparing Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti and Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, this in-depth review highlights everything you need to know—from school fees, courses offered, admission process, academic calendar, accommodation costs, and student life.

Both institutions offer quality technical and vocational education, but your choice depends on your goals, budget, and preferred learning environment.

About Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti (FPA)

Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti, one of the most recognized federal polytechnics in Nigeria, began operations in 1977 in Jos before relocating to Akure and finally settling in Ado-Ekiti in 1982. Today, it boasts over 10,000 students, modern laboratories, and accredited programs in engineering, management, and technology.

It runs full-time, part-time, and evening programs across five major schools:

• Business Studies

• Engineering

• Environmental Studies

• Science and Computer Studies

• Agriculture and Agricultural Technology

This wide range of programs, coupled with stable academic operations and nationwide reputation, makes FPA a top choice for students who want fast-paced education with strong industry relevance.

About Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti (EKSPOLY)

Established in 2014 and upgraded in 2019, Ekiti State Polytechnic (EKSPOLY) is a state-owned institution designed to develop technical and agricultural expertise. It focuses on agriculture, science, and technology, producing skilled graduates for Nigeria’s growing job market.

In 2023, the institution officially adopted the name Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti after undergoing structural reforms. EKSPOLY now runs multiple ND and HND programs emphasizing innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

If you want affordable education with practical exposure in agriculture, ICT, and engineering, EKSPOLY is a great choice.

FPA vs EKSPOLY: Detailed Comparison

1. Academic Calendar and Speed of Study

If you want to graduate on time without delay, Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti has one of the fastest academic calendars in the southwest. Academic activities flow smoothly with minimal disruptions.

While Ekiti State Polytechnic is catching up, it’s still developing its administrative systems. Students seeking a faster, more predictable study cycle should prefer FPA.

2. Tuition Fees and Affordability

School fees influence many students’ choices, and here’s how both compare:

• Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti:
  ND freshers pay around ₦100,000 per session; returning students ₦63,000. Part-time and evening students pay ₦150,000 for first year and ₦90,000 for second year.

• Ekiti State Polytechnic:
  ND and HND students pay between ₦80,000 and ₦100,000 per session, excluding minor fees.

If you’re searching for cheap polytechnics in Nigeria, EKSPOLY is more budget-friendly. But if you want a federal institution with better funding, digital facilities, and stronger graduate employability, FPA justifies its higher cost.

3. Location, Community, and Security

FPA is located in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, giving students access to good roads, banks, healthcare centers, and part-time job opportunities. Security is tight within the campus and surrounding communities like Aba.

EKSPOLY, located in Isan-Ekiti, offers a quieter, rural setting ideal for focused study. The community is peaceful and safe, with minimal cases of theft or violence.

If you want urban exposure, choose FPA; for a calm, distraction-free environment, EKSPOLY is perfect.

4. Accommodation and Living Expenses

Housing around Ado-Ekiti is more expensive because of its urban location. Students at FPA spend ₦70,000 and above yearly for off-campus apartments in areas like Aba Erinfun, while some pay per session.

In contrast, students at Ekiti State Polytechnic can rent rooms from ₦30,000 yearly, depending on proximity to the school. The low cost of living in Isan-Ekiti makes EKSPOLY a smart choice for students on tight budgets.

5. Program Flexibility (Full-Time & Part-Time Options)

Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti provides both full-time and part-time ND/HND programs, making it ideal for working students or those combining business with study.

Ekiti State Polytechnic currently runs only full-time programs but plans to introduce part-time options soon.

So if flexibility matters, FPA is your best bet.

6. Admission Requirements and Cut-Off Marks

At Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti, admission cut-off marks fluctuate yearly but usually start from 120 and above in UTME. The process is competitive due to high application numbers.

At Ekiti State Polytechnic, candidates with 100 and above in UTME can easily gain admission once they meet O’level requirements. The process is faster and less competitive.

7. Courses Offered

Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti Courses

Accountancy
Banking and Finance
Business Administration and Management
Library and Information Science
Marketing
Mass Communication
Office Technology and Management
Procurement and Supply Chain Management
Public Administration
Taxation
Agricultural Technology
Fisheries Technology
Horticultural Technology
Civil Engineering Technology
Electrical & Electronic Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Mechatronics Engineering Technology
Minerals & Petroleum Resources Engineering Technology
Water Resources Engineering Technology
Welding and Fabrication Engineering Technology
Architectural Technology
Building Technology
Cartography and GIS
Estate Management and Valuation
Quantity Surveying
Surveying and Geo-Informatics
Urban and Regional Planning
Art and Industrial Design
Computer Science
Food Science and Technology
Glass and Ceramic Technology
Hospitality Management Technology
Science Laboratory Technology
Statistics

Ekiti State Polytechnic Courses

ND Science Laboratory Technology
ND Statistics
ND Computer Science
ND Library Information Science
ND Food Science and Technology
ND Hospitality Management Technology
HND Cybersecurity and Data Protection
HND Software and Web Development
HND Artificial Intelligence
ND Agricultural Technology
HND Crop Production
HND Agricultural Extension & Management
HND Agribusiness
HND Fisheries Technology
ND Computer Engineering
ND Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology
HND Electrical/Electronics (Power & Machine)
HND Electrical/Electronics (Telecommunication & Electronics)
ND Business Administration
ND Public Administration
ND Cooperative Economics & Management
ND Accountancy
HND Accountancy

8. Exposure and Urban Development

Being in the state capital, Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti provides better exposure to real-life work environments, internship placements, and business opportunities. Students can easily connect with professionals and firms in Ekiti’s capital city.

Ekiti State Polytechnic, however, offers a peaceful atmosphere with less distraction—ideal for students who value focus over nightlife or urban stress.

Key Differences Between FPA and EKSPOLY

Final Verdict: Which Polytechnic Is Better?

Both Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti and Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, are great institutions with unique strengths.

• Choose Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti (FPA) if you want:

  • A faster academic calendar

  • Part-time or evening program options

  • Broader course selections

  • Urban exposure and reputation

• Choose Ekiti State Polytechnic (EKSPOLY) if you want:

  • Lower school fees

  • Affordable accommodation

  • Easier admission process

  • A peaceful, focused learning environment

Ultimately, your determination and academic commitment matter more than the institution you attend.