Federal Polytechnic Oko Inaugurates New Deans and Heads of Departments, Warns Against Misconduct

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has officially inaugurated nine newly elected Deans of Schools and Heads of Academic Departments in a ceremony held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Mass Communication Conference Hall.

The academic leaders emerged from elections conducted on Wednesday, April 22, through what was widely described as a peaceful and transparent process.

Addressing the newly inaugurated officers, Dr. Awuzie commended the Electoral Committee, led by the Director of Academic Planning, Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe, for ensuring a credible and fair exercise. She also congratulated the Deans and Heads of Departments, describing their emergence as a clear reflection of the confidence reposed in them by their colleagues.

The Rector emphasized the critical role of academic leaders in maintaining standards and driving institutional excellence. She noted that Deans and Heads of Departments serve as key links between management, staff, and students, and must therefore uphold discipline, institutional policies, and professional ethics at all times.

She urged them to foster collaboration among staff, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that their schools and departments remain safe, peaceful, and conducive for learning and research.

Dr. Awuzie further encouraged the new appointees to demonstrate quality leadership built on unity, mutual respect, and inclusiveness. She advised them to lead with humility, listen with empathy, and act with courage in order to make meaningful and lasting contributions to the Polytechnic’s growth.

Reaffirming her administration’s vision, the Rector stated that efforts are ongoing to reposition Federal Polytechnic Oko as a hub of excellence, innovation, and professional relevance in Nigeria’s education sector.

She issued a strong warning against all forms of misconduct, including extortion, bribery, and sexual harassment, stressing that any staff found guilty would face strict disciplinary actions, including suspension or dismissal.

The inauguration ceremony also featured goodwill messages and professional advice from members of the Polytechnic’s management and governing council, including Comrade Chibuzo Asomugha and Dr. Helen Nnabuenyi, who urged the new academic leaders to justify the confidence placed in them through effective and ethical leadership.